Ann Lush, 86, has spent three decades supporting The Children’s Society through the Penarth Open Gardens event, which she first launched with her late husband Dennis in 1996.
The event most recently took place this on July 25 and 26, giving locals and visitors the chance to explore 15 different gardens across Penarth over the course of the weekend, exploring green spaces lovingly upkept by those who simply love the outdoors – all while supporting The Children’s Society.
Ms Lush said: “It was a huge success, and we just haven’t looked back.
“It’s such a beautiful legacy for Dennis.
“People come from everywhere now.”
What began as a one-off idea to welcome neighbours into their garden for £1 each has grown into a long-standing community tradition. The year following the first event, enthusiasm spread across the community and 12 gardens took part.
To date, around £120,000 raised to date for the children’s charity.
Mr Lush, who served as Honorary Vice President of The Children’s Society, passed away in 2020 and Ms Lush has worked to keep the fundraising total rising higher since.
Ms Lush’s dedication to the cause is rooted in her early life.
She said: “While I was growing up, my grandmother didn’t like having my friends over.
“So I decided, when I was still young, that if I ever had a garden of my own I would never turn a child away.
“And if I could ever help a young person, I would.”
Visitors could explore each garden for £1 or all 15 for £5, with tea, coffee and homemade cakes included.
Ms Lush transforms her home into a hub for the weekend, her contribution proving substantial.
Ms Lush said: “My dining room looked like a shop; chutneys, jams, marmalades.
“I had over 160 jars this year.
“And I make a special almond slice everyone loves.”
Mark Russell, chief executive of The Children’s Society, said: “Ann is a remarkable woman whose commitment over three decades has been extraordinary.
“What she and Dennis started in one garden has grown into something that brings a whole community together, year after year, for children who need our help.
“Thirty years is a genuine achievement and everyone involved should be very proud. It was wonderful to see the gardens this weekend – and that almond slice lived up to its reputation.”
