VISITORS to Needham Market this Sunday will be given a taste of the horticultural high-life as 20 top gardens are revealed. An Open Gardens of Needham Market event is being held from 11am to 5.

VISITORS to Needham Market this Sunday will be given a taste of the horticultural high-life as 20 top gardens are revealed.

An Open Gardens of Needham Market event is being held from 11am to 5.30pm to boost the town's entry into the prestigious Anglia in Bloom competition.

Josephine Lea, of the town council and one of those behind the entry, said: "It's a rare opportunity to see other people's gardens and the people don't seem to mind them doing it.

"Some of the gardens are such a surprise because you often walk along the streets but you don't always see the gardens behind them."

After winning a clutch of awards two years ago, the 40-strong band of volunteers behind the bid are hoping for similar success this year.

Although recognition is always welcome, the joy of improving the town's appearance is the most important factor, according to Mrs Lea.

She said: "We'd love to win something but I feel that simply entering has made a difference to the town.

"There's flowerpots and hanging baskets all along the High Street but none of that was here before we entered the competition three years ago.

"We feel we've achieved what we set out to do."

Sunday's event will see gardens in High Street, Crown Street, Coddenham Road and many other areas opened up for public inspection.

The walkable tour, which costs £3 for adults and £2.50 for concessions, begins at 93 High Street, Needham Market, where programmes will be sold. Children will be admitted free of charge.

Judges will cast their eye over the town's floral appearance on July 28 and this Sunday sees the latest fundraising event to boost the cause.

For more information about Sunday's tour, call the council on 01449 722246.