KEEN gardeners across Bexley and North Kent have the opportunity to help raise funds for the EllenorLions Hospices providing care to ill children and their families.

Several people have already signed up to the Secret Garden programme but more people are needed.

The charity is calling on homeowners in Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley to hold a fundraising garden party for family and friends and their wider communities. The project is being backed by local TV personality, horticulturalist and plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke, who is planning on making an appearance at one of the gardens.

Tom said: ""I am delighted to be supporting the Secret Gardens scheme for 2014, raising money for seriously ill babies, children and adults across Kent.

"Each garden is individual and I will be making a special appearance at one of them to answer all your gardening queries."

Garden owners taking part will be charging a small entry fee to be donated to the hospice and some will be providing entertainment and beverages.

All money raised from Secret Gardens will help EllenorLions Hospices to provide vital care and support to seriously ill children and adults and their families, in their place of choice. Isobel Kerry, area fundraiser for the charity added: "A slice of cake in the sun, while soaking up the beautiful surroundings of our Secret Gardens in an idyllic way to fundraise.

"You can either hold a private function for family and friends, or you can share your beautiful garden with the wider public.

"As a charity we must raise over £6million every year, so we really hope that people will support the Secret Gardens programme this year."

For a full list of Secret Garden Events in your area, please visit www.ellenorlions.org