A GARDEN that has been open to the public for 40 years has been recognised by a national charity.

Constable Burton Hall near Leyburn has been the home of the Wyvill family for over four -and-a-half centuries. For more than 40 years the gardens have opened to the public. They are part of the National Garden Scheme which is the most significant charitable funder of nursing charities in the country.

In recognition of Constable Burton Hall’s participation over the years the family have been given a sundial which is to take pride of place amongst the extensive floral displays.

The Wyvills are descended from an unbroken line that stretches back to 1066 when Sir Humphrey de Wyvill was Companion in Arms to William the Conqueror.

Present resident D’Arcy Wyvill said: “We are very pleased to receive this commemorative sundial.”