Garden party raises funds for Salisbury Hospice

A garden party at the Hospital of St John in Heytesbury has raised £673 for Salisbury Hospice.

The event, held last month, was organised by St John’s Residents’ Social Committee and welcomed villagers from Heytesbury and surrounding areas into the almshouse grounds.

Visitors were able to explore the gardens and allotments, where residents grow flowers and vegetables, as well as see the site’s new beehives, wildflower areas, garden benches and wildlife pond.

“The idea was to invite villagers from Heytesbury and surrounding villages to come into the grounds of St John’s and see for themselves the beautiful gardens and allotments,” said Linda Pictor, treasurer of St John’s Residents Social Committee.

“It was amazing to see the number of people who turned up on the day.”

The attractions included a pottery demonstration by White Horse Pottery in Westbury, an exhibition beehive and honey produced by bees at St John’s, local craft stalls, animal portraits and artwork created by residents during lessons led by one of the charity’s trustees.

An information display also highlighted the history of St John’s and other almshouses in the area.

Refreshments including savoury snacks, cakes, cream teas, strawberries and cream, and hot and cold drinks were available, while a summer-hamper raffle was won by a Heytesbury resident.

“The committee would like to thank all the villagers and residents, and everyone else, for supporting this new venture,” Linda added.

The Hospital of St John, Heytesbury, is a charity and almshouse providing affordable housing for people in need who wish to live independently.