THE GARDENS of a picturesque property in Darlington will be opened to the public for the first time this week.

A Secret Garden event will be hosted at Chatwyn House in Hurworth on Thursday, May 23 in aid of homeless charity the 700 Club.

Visitors can tour the garden and take part in a raffle and tortoise hunt from 10am until noon and from 2pm until 4pm.

Entrance is £3 and includes tea or coffee and a homemade biscuit. Access is level and wheelchairs are welcome.

Chatwyn House is located at 12 West End, Hurworth, DL2 2HB.