Plett gardens raise over R40 000 for animal welfare

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Despite Covid-19 restrictions, the annual Plett Open Garden Day in aid of the Plettenberg Bay Animal Welfare Society (Paws) was a massive success.

More than R40 000 was raised as avid Plett gardeners opened their private gardens for enthusiasts to enjoy on Saturday 14 November.

According to organiser Marsja Hall-Green the ninth edition of the event exceeded expectations. "When embarking on the planning, I was concerned that Covid-19 conditions would have a negative impact on our event and that people would be hesitant to come out, although it was an outdoor event. I need not have worried, because we had more than 240 visitors to the gardens and raised in excess of R40 000 on the day," she said.

Ouland Royale also hosted a cake and plant sale and these brought in more than R6 000 each.

"It was truly gratifying to see so many people out and about, enjoying good weather and beautiful gardens. We are very grateful to everyone who made a contribution," said Hall-Green.

This includes the garden owners who braved the crowds of appreciative visitors that traipsed through their properties. "Our plant sale would not have been possible without the generous plant donations from all Plett's nurseries (Nature's Way, Red Barn, Simply Green, Chameleon, Barrowdale and Ouland).

"We received amazing cake donations from local bakers as well as a huge donated decorated Christmas cake and other Christmas goodies from Sweet Petals in Cape Town. Sincere thanks to Delia's and Clare's for their spectacular cakes."

One of the private gardens in Beachyhead Drive.

Hall-Green added that they are also grateful to the many others who donated goods towards the event.

"Our indefatigable volunteers deserve a special word of thanks, as they are the ones who have to sit outside in variable weather conditions to welcome and assist our visitors. I am delighted that this Paws event continues to provide enjoyment to local garden lovers."

She said the event is a great help for Paws, especially this year, as funds have been curtailed over the past few months due to the economic impact of the pandemic.

The Lenahan Garden in Plett Central was open during the annual Open Gardens Day.