THE friendly village of Beckford will be throwing its doors wide open on the weekend of Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2.

Beckford Open Village 2024 sees open gardens and lots of other attractions for all of the family to enjoy.

It runs from 1pm to 6pm each day.

On Saturday, June 1 at 1pm the church bells will be ringing out to herald the start of this much-anticipated event.

Shortly afterwards, it will be officially opened by Claire Midgley-Adam MVO, gardens manager to the Royal Household, London.

People are welcome to be inspired by the beautiful gardens, each with their own character and different points of interest.

They can discover the history of the village and explore the nature reserve with its tranquil lake and bird hides.

People will be able to marvel at the ancient carvings inside the church, enjoy the flower displays and maybe join a tour of the bell tower.

For refreshments people can choose between teas with tasty homemade cakes and snacks, a Champagne bar and barbecue, ice creams or local cider served among ancient apple trees.

There will also be a quiz trail for children, vintage vehicles and radios, plant sales, preserves stall, tombola and more.

On Sunday, June 2 people will be entertained by the Winchcombe Community Choir and a flypast by a historic Hurricane aircraft.

A photography competition will run throughout the weekend with a prize for the winning photograph and the chance to have work featured in publicity for the next event.

Adults can attend for £6 with under 16s free.

Dogs are welcome — on leads.

Beckford is just off the A46 between Evesham and Tewkesbury and more details are available at beckfordopenvillage.org.uk.