THOUSANDS of visitors made their way to the Usk open gardens’ event over the weekend as part of the Usk Festival.

The gardening event started in 1994 and attracts around 2,000 visitors to the historic town each year.

Now in its 21st year, the two-day event has raised more than £200,000 for local charities and organisers hope to match last year’s total of £15,000 this year.

The event is heavily supported by local businesses which sponsor publicity and the bus service cost to enable all the funds raised to be donated to charity.

This year’s event featured 22 gardens and each gardener will nominate a local charity for their share of the entrance fee made on the day.

Among those showcasing their talent was Janet Mundy, who has been involved with the event for five years and whose two foot Whirling Butterflies plant proved a particular draw.

She said: “It’s the busiest I’ve ever seen it.

“We’ve had quite a few coach parties and there are just so many children here. It’s really pleasant.

“Everyone has commented on the variety on offer and we’re already putting our ideas together for next year."

Visitors to Usk Castle’s gardens were also able to view the Usk Tapestry - a community project involving more than 50 stitchers over nine years.