Sue is all set for Thetford Open Gardens

As Thetford Open Gardens are set to bloom for another year one fundraiser has taken steps to ensure it’s not just the garden visitors will be able to enjoy.

Sue Norman, who has been opening her Arlington Way garden as part of Thetford Open Gardens for the last eight years, had the event which raises funds for the Hospice firmly in her mind when she renovated her kitchen earlier this year.

Sue, who has been on the event’s organising committee for around five years, has become well known for her scrumptious cakes, which she serves up throughout the day to visitors.

Sue said: “When the designer came around to look at the kitchen he had all these ideas about what could be done and what could go where.

“When I told him I needed at least an 8ft island in the middle of the kitchen he looked a little confused. I told him I needed the space to make sure I had enough room for the trays of bacon sandwiches I make and the cakes during Thetford Open Gardens.

“He couldn’t quite believe I was willing to design the kitchen around one day, but I told him it was such an important day, I had to make sure everything was right.

“The new kitchen has definitely been designed with the Open Gardens in mind, because of the larger island in the middle there is a lot more space for the cakes and the extra worktop space will mean more room for the bacon sandwiches.”

Thetford Open Gardens will take place on Sunday, 25 June and gardens of all shapes and sizes showcased in aid of a good cause. As well as preparing some 100 bacon sandwiches Sue will also be serving up a range of cakes – with two very special recipes yet to be revealed.

Started 11-years-ago by Liz Hodgson as a community event as well as a fundraiser, Thetford Open Gardens has grown and flourished over the years. Last year’s event attracted hundreds of visitors and raised more than £11,000 for the Hospice and organisers are hoping to match that amount this year.

“The Hospice is such an important charity; its services are there for everyone when they need them most,” added Sue.

Admission to the gardens is by programme – available from Thetford Garden Centre, Thetford’s Great Information Centre and Hospice shops. Gardens will be open from 11am-5pm.