DESPITE still being trapped in the dark depths of winter, some people in Cirencester are already looking towards the warmer summer months.

Planning has already started for the 2014 Cirencester Open Garden Scheme, which will take place in June and July.

Around 20 garden owners have pledged to take part in the event that raises money to support the Cirencester Housing for Young People (CHYP) charity.

Meg Blumson, coordinator of the scheme, said: “We raised £5,000 at our last set of openings in 2012 and, if the weather is kind, we could well do the same again.

“The 2012 openings were successful because so many joined in. People love to visit gardens and have a cream tea as well. The event also appealed to a wide range of visitors.”

The team behind the Open Gardens scheme would like to hear from any people who want to get involved by opening their garden, offering to provide plants for stalls or just helping out at any of the openings on the day.

In a bid to reduce pressure on gardeners this year, the management team will help with all the organisation of the openings such as publicity and signage.

Anybody interested in taking part in this year’s event should call Meg Blumson on 01285 657696.