Visitors to open-garden events this summer will rake in an extra bonus - water-saving advice!

Yorkshire Water is sponsoring a series of open gardens and is offering information, plus a device to slash water usage, to every visitor.

The events, which give the public the chance to explore normally-private gardens, are being staged by the British Red Cross. Proceeds will go to the charity. Among the gardens on show - on Sunday, July 11 - will be Wilton House, Harry Lane, Oxenhope, admission £2, and Brookfield, Oxenhope, admission £1.50. Both will be open from 2-5pm. There will be free entry for children.

Andrew Walker, YW's water conservation manager, says: "A well planned and maintained garden incorporating plants resistant to dry weather, mulches and rainwater butts, can look attractive without the need to use large amounts of tap water." The company wants to highlight the unnecessary wastage of water in gardens.

Lisa Curtis, regional fundraising co-ordinator for the British Red Cross, says: "The money raised from these events will help maintain and expand the many essential services we provide in local communities, caring for the most vulnerable and isolated people. We are extremely grateful for the support Yorkshire Water is giving."

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