GARDENING celebrity Monty Don entertained more than 100 guests at Eardisland’s Burton Court for a fundraising evening in aid of Herefordshire Wildlife Trust (HWT).

Monty, a new patron of the Trust, talked passionately on the role gardening plays in connecting people with nature.

As a long-standing resident of the county, he explained his deep-rooted connection to the landscape and character of Herefordshire, and the importance of feeling connected to the land, soil and nature.

Following the speech was a silent auction with luxury items and experiences donated by a number of county businesses and individuals including Henryka Jewellery, Herefordshire Glamping and Herbfarmacy, which raised £2,000 towards wildlife conservation in the county.

HWT’s John Clark said: “We were thrilled that this event went so well – especially as it’s the first time the Trust has held this type of event.”