AS enjoyable as gardening is, it can always be improved by adding a cup of tea and a large slice of cake. And on Friday, July 1, people can do just that.

Come along to the beautiful gardens of Monksfield House in Tilford, and indulge in a delicious afternoon tea while listening to gardening expert Chris Beardshaw talk enthusiastically about all things horticultural.

A regular on Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time, Chris will be giving a talk and answering questions at this special event, which will raise money for Phyllis Tuckwell, which provides compassionate end-of-life care for patients and families living with cancer, or another serious progressive illness.

“We are delighted that Chris will be joining us at this delightful event,” said Peter Foxton, director of income generation at Phyllis Tuckwell. “It promises to be a real treat for all the horticulturists out there, and the money raised will help us greatly.

“Every day we support over 250 patients and families who are living with a terminal illness. We care for them in their own homes, at the hospice in Farnham and at the Beacon Centre in Guildford, but as NHS/Government only covers 20 per cent of our costs, we have to raise over £20,000 a day to be able to do this.”

The gardens will be open from 12pm to 3.30pm and Chris will be in the greenhouse to answer questions from 12.30pm. Afternoon tea will be served at 2pm and will be followed by a talk from Chris. Those attending will be able to fully explore the grounds - which cover more than 10 acres - as well as being given the opportunity to ask Chris their own questions.

Numbers are limited and to purchase tickets, which are priced at £35 each, visit shop.pth.org.uk/monksfield-house or call 01252 729446.