A garden, which has been open to the public for the past 20 years under the National Gardens Scheme (NGS), is to close in the coming weeks.

Abbots House, in Abbots Langley, is owned by Peter and Sue Tomson.

By opening their garden, over the years, they have managed to raise about £45,700 for a number of charities including Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The garden has opened three times a year, but it will open for the final time on Sunday, May 1.

To mark the 20th and ultimate year of opening, Dr and Mrs Tomson were presented with a garden fork by NGS County Organiser Julie Wise.

Dr Tomson said: “Our garden features a number of ‘rooms’ each with its own style and mood.

“We will also be holding a plant sale with many plants propagated from the garden on offer.

“All the money goes to the NGS which supports, among others, a number of cancer charities.”

Fifteen years ago, their "little oasis" tucked away off the High Street, was featured on the TV programme “Real Gardens” with Monty Don.

Julie Wise, NGS County Organiser for Hertfordshire, said: “I am thrilled that the garden has raised so much for so many good causes and sad that this will be their last opening for us.

“I have been visiting the garden since before my involvement with the NGS and have always found treasures that I can’t find anywhere else.”

Commenting on the last opening, Mrs Tomson added: “We have always really enjoyed the open days and have been impressed with how well the visitors have treated the garden.

“Our barn has always been perfect for serving teas.

“I am delighted and amazed at how much we have raised over the years. It has been a pleasure to share our garden with others.”

The garden will be open for the final time on Sunday, May 1, between 2 and 5pm.

Admission to the garden is £3.50, but children can attend for free.

Teas and plants will be available.

For more information about the National Garden Scheme visit: www.ngs.org.uk