Dear Editor, Skenfrith, the little village on the River Monnow crossing - with large ruined castle and beautiful medieval church, is hosting a fundraising garden event on Sunday, June 7th which is to be opened by one of its patrons: Sir Roy Strong.

A duo from the Red Rivers Blues will strike up on the castle green, with Kelsmor Ice Cream nearby and the specialist nursery from Llangrove, in advance of the opening moment, after which Sir Roy will take off with Jerry Smith, who with his wife, is providing free transport for the day.

After visiting the 16 gardens, some are in the village under the lee of St. Bridget's, others taking in the stunning views of the Skirrrid, Dawn of Day, Coed Y Pwll and Blackbrooke as well as looking down the Wye Valley, Sir Roy will return to the village before giving a talk at about 2pm.

His talk will be followed by three local celebrities, whose lives have been definitively changed by living in this corner of the world.

The setting is beautiful; you can buy plants and refreshments at the gardens. Everyone is welcome.

Sarah Steer, Skenfrith