DIRLETON is preparing to open its gardens to visitors next month as the village takes part in the annual Scotland’s Gardens Scheme to raise money for charity.

Despite the hard winter and the late spring which followed, gardeners throughout the county have managed to produce some glorious results and these are now building up to their midsummer peak.

This is clearly in evidence in Dirleton where the village is expected to be a blaze of colour during the weekend of June 9/10 when up to 18 of its gardens will be open.

The open gardens are scattered throughout the village, each within a short walking distance of the village green, where ample free parking is available.

They can all be visited on a single ticket – £5 for adults and free of charge for under-16s.

And with gardens of different sizes and styles, visitors will find a welcome from owners happy to share their knowledge and answer any questions.

Adding to this year’s event is the biennial flower festival which is being held in the village church hall on both days, 10am to 4pm.

This year’s theme is Joseph’s Coat of Many Colours.

And tickets include admission to the gardens of Dirleton Castle, one of Scotland’s best preserved medieval fortresses, situated in the heart of the village and dating from the 13th century.

The castle gardens contain a herbaceous border extending to over 200 metres in length – one of the longest in the world.

Dirleton Primary School is opening its Rainbow Orchard, at the top of the village, where many varieties of fruit trees cared for with the children’s help can be found.

There is also an edible hedge (rosehips), wishing willow tunnels and a willow nursery – with ribbons available for the wishing willow.

Throughout the weekend tea and refreshments will be served in the church hall by Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) supporters and church helpers.

All the activities help raise money for good causes including the RNLI; Dirleton Village Association; The Queen’s Nursing Institute Scotland; Maggie’s Centres; the National Trust for Scotland Garden Fund; and also Perennial, the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society.