The sun was shining brightly for this year’s Elstree garden party in aid of children’s charity, NSPCC.

Norman and Anne Shuker opened up their eight and a half acres of land at their Grade II listed home, Shopwick Place, in High Street, yesterday.

Hundreds of people turned out to look at the grounds, browse the stalls and enjoy live music by the Borehamwood Brass Band. 

Mrs Shuker, who was selling homemade cakes and tea with her daughter, Amber, said: “The weather was perfect and everyone had a lovely time.

“We have a pond with water lilies, a little orchard and woodland walks – everyone enjoyed looking around, spending time in the sunshine and catching up with old friends.”

Mrs Shuker and her husband have been running the event for the last eight years. They chose to support the NSPCC because the previous owner of their house, Dr Wynn Everett, was a keen supporter of the charity.

There were also various stalls selling jewellery and handcrafts, as well as face painting and pottery painting for children. John Crosby, owner of Maxwelton Nurseries in Well End, donated plants which he sold for £117 in aid of NSPCC.

The event raised more than £2,000 for NSPCC, which aims to end cruelty to children in the UK.

Organiser Ann Goddard said: “The garden was thronged and everybody really enjoyed themselves. The whole atmosphere was wonderful.”

Mayor of Hertsmere, Councillor Pat Strack, also attended the event.  She said: “It was an absolutely great day. I hope it raises a lot of money for the NSPCC because they do a lot of good work.”