YELLOW ‘sunnyflowers’ handcrafted by villager Ron Hodge will be pointing the way to the well-pruned grounds taking part in the open gardens day in Steeple Ashton on May 31.

Every other year, the residents spend months tidying their gardens ready for visitors to come and admire their flourishing plants in aid St Mary’s Church and Mr Hodge, 74, has especially made the wooden flowers to ensure visitors do not miss any of the 15 gardens taking part.

This time the event has also been moved to May instead of June to catch the flowers that have blossomed early due to the warm weather.

From 1.30-6pm people can take a peek inside all the gardens for the price of £5 for adults and free for children with tickets being sold around the village. The money raised will go towards the church’s preservation trust which has raised £30,000 since the biannual event started in 1999.

There will also plant stalls and cream teas on the village green, a children’s competition and drinks at the Longs Arms. At the end of the day three lucky people and their friend will get the chance to go on a guided tour on the 93ft tower of the church with a glass of champagne while they take in the views.

Gina Manning, chief organiser of the event, said: “The gardens vary in size from several acres to more modest plots. Last time around in 2013, the event attracted over 800 people to the village on a glorious sunny day. Weather permitting again this year, we aim to exceed that number.”