17-06-2025
Monmouthshire garden owner recognised by National Garden Scheme
Sarah Clay received an engraved garden fork from Debbie Field of the National Garden Scheme (NGS) for her and her husband Anthony's commitment.
The couple's garden, designed collaboratively by Eric Francis and Avray Tipping, is in the Italianate Arts and Crafts style, featuring a range of elements from a rose garden to a summerhouse.
The garden is opened as part of the NGS, which raises money for charities by charging an admission fee for private garden viewings.
Over the past two decades, the Clays have raised thousands for the cause.
Ms Field said: "Gardeners never think their garden is good enough to open for the NGS; they are their own worst critics."
She encourages more garden owners to consider joining the scheme to aid in the ongoing fundraising.
The Clays' garden includes a rose garden designed by Sarah Price, added in 2018, which hosts a variety of flowers from April to October.
There are also features like ancient sculpted topiary, a sunken garden, and woodland areas.
A walled garden houses fruit trees, and a recently added Platinum Jubilee border features lavender and an arbour, with a mural painted by Andrea Davies in 2023.
The NGS depends on the generosity of private garden owners to raise funds for its causes.
Ms Field calls for those interested in opening their gardens or knowing someone who might be to get in contact at wenalltisaf@
