HARWICH's popular Secret Gardens event returned this weekend raising an estimated £2,000 despite the heavy rain. 

The wet event last year attracted nearly 700 people and this year attracted about 400 people.

Chair - Frances Vincent, the chair of Harwich Secret Gardens, in her own gardenChair - Frances Vincent, the chair of Harwich Secret Gardens, in her own garden (Image: Steve Brading)

Frances Vincent, chair of the event, said: “When you think how awful the weather was, I was surprised people came, so you can say it was a really good turnout bearing in mind the awful conditions.

"People were very resilient, very nice, and said to us: we will support you."

Ms Vincent also revealed due to the weather there will be a second Harwich Secrets, this year and said: "If you weren’t able to come this weekend or hope for better weather, four gardens will be open on Sunday raising money for the National Gardens Scheme."

Social - Aileen Farnell with Nigel Mowle at the Church Street Harwich Society courtyardSocial - Aileen Farnell with Nigel Mowle at the Church Street Harwich Society courtyard (Image: Steve Brading)

The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to more than 3,500 exceptional private gardens in England and works with other charities. 

While over the years, the Secret Gardens has raised money for MacMillan's, Marie Curie, NEST, and the Salvation army, with the country giving away between 3 to 4 million each year.

To find out more about Sunday July 14's event email Frances.vincent@ngs.org.uk.