10 June 2026 –
Rare access to the spectacular gardens of Sandridge Park, overlooking the River Dart, drew visitors from across the region on 6th and 7th June. The event offered an opportunity not only to enjoy one of South Devon’s finest private estates but also to support the important work of LandWorks.
By the time the last slice of cake had been served, and the final visitors had left, the Open Garden weekend had raised more than £14,500, providing a significant boost to LandWorks’ rehabilitation and resettlement work.
Over the two days, around five hundred visitors (including many enthusiastic dogs on leads) spent hours exploring ten acres of beautifully restored formal gardens, productive walled gardens, orchards and peaceful woodland and riverside walks. With its rich history ̶ once owned by Sir Walter Raleigh and later shaped by celebrated architect John Nash ̶ the 150-acre estate near Stoke Gabriel offered a stunning setting for the fundraising event.
The weather may have tested organisers on Saturday, but it did little to dampen spirits. Families, friends, and garden enthusiasts embraced the occasion, enjoying homemade teas and cakes, picnics on the lawns and the chance to browse handcrafted products, garden furniture and fresh flowers and vegetables created and grown by LandWorks participants. Every purchase helped support the charity’s life-changing work.
The final fundraising total came from a combination of entrance fees, product sales, teas, and a generous £5,000 match-funding donation, helping to push the total beyond expectations.
For hosts and organisers Mark and Rosemary Yallop, the weekend was about much more than fundraising: “Despite the challenging weather on Saturday, the event was a great success. It was lovely to welcome so many new visitors of all ages to the estate and see them enjoying the gardens and grounds. We are grateful to the many friends and contacts who contributed and for all their hard work over the weekend. It is a privilege to be able to support LandWorks’ incredible work in this way.”
The event also gave many visitors their first introduction to LandWorks and the impact it has within the local community. Reflecting on the success of the weekend, Chris Parsons, Director of LandWorks, said:“ We were able to introduce lots of new people to the charity and the funds raised will directly support our work helping people leaving prison or at risk of prison to transform their lives. We are immensely grateful to Mark and Rosemary and to everyone who contributed to this wonderful event.”
