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More gardens than ever are set to be opened up to the public as part of a community event.

Now in its 40th year, the Avenues Open Gardens extravaganza is returning to west Hull on the first two Sundays of July. This year, visitors can muse through 62 different gardens and allotments with the event promising to be bigger and better than ever before.

Mary Cryan, 60, who lives in Blenheim Street with her husband Michael, first entered her 'eco garden' 12 years ago and nearly every year since she's spruced up her garden so it can be showcased to the community.

She said: "It's always just been really nice having lots of people come and look at your garden, and being able to share things with people.

"Every year we try and do something different. One year I had a chest of drawers full of containers and this year I have got a few surprises up my sleeve too.

"There is no competition and for us it has always been a bit of fun. I wouldn't say that I don't take it seriously - I do my garden to be at its best and I'll get the pressure washer out to the paving before anyone gets here."

(Image: Simon Renilson)

The grandmother-of-five's precious garden has several birdhouses and her small haven often receives visits from hedgehogs and foxes.

Her love for gardening started when she was a youngster, but she still hasn't been to encourage her own children to take up her hobby for themselves.

However, she encourages anyone who is curious about what's in store to give the event a go and peruse through people's gardens in and around the Avenues.

"I think they will be really surprised by the variety of gardens," she said. "They come in all shapes and sizes and there are plenty of activities for people young and old to do across the two weekends.

"There will be BBQ's, walks, bric-a-brac stalls and plenty more to do. It's a really great day out for all the family and I can't recommend it enough."

(Image: Simon Renilson)

Robbie Walker-Brown, 60, is one of four organisers who has helped to put together this year's showpiece.

He has entered his garden in Marlborough Avenue for the last 17 years, but four years ago he turned his hand to organising and he is delighted so many people have entered this year's event.

Mr Walker-Brown thinks that the buzz of City of Culture has encouraged more people across the Avenues to enter their green spaces, and hopes more will join before the event launches on Sunday, July 2.

(Image: Simon Renilson)

He said: "Because it's City of Culture everyone wants to do something in the city. We have also been niggling away at people, putting the word around and even set up our own website for the first time.

"It's a massive community event and it's not just about the gardens, it's about the community coming together. There is something in it for everyone.

"I would urge people to come along and be surprised. Come and have a nose at people's private gardens and have a really good day out with the kids.

"The feedback we get year on year is phenomenal and people come from far and wide to enjoy what we have to offer. You would be missing out on one of the best community events in Hull and maybe even the region."

Tickets for the event cost £4 for adults across both weekends and this includes a programme with a list of all the gardens. Children can enter for free.

At least 50 per cent of the money raised from the event goes straight to Dove House Hospice. Funds will also be amassed for Miresbeck Nursery, International House and Kingston Youth Centre.