Gardeners' expertise raising money for dementia research

Gardening enthusiasts from Barton-under-Needwood are showing off their horticultural prowess to raise money for dementia research.

Margaret and Peter Hargreaves are opening the gardens of their cottage to the public, with entrants paying a small donation to the Alzheimer's Research Trust.

The beautifully landscaped garden and variety of plants attract hundreds of visitors every summer, and over the last 18 years the couple have raised over £40,000 for various charities.

Dementia research will be the beneficiary this year, with Mrs Hargreaves explaining why the issue is so important.

She said: "I come in contact with so many people with Alzheimer's who were once so bright and alert.

"Far more money needs to be ploughed into research and we are pleased our garden is helping us to contribute."

According to the Alzheimer's Society, there is expected to be more than one million people living with dementia in the UK by the year 2025.

Read more about Barchester's dementia care homes.