AN OPEN garden event brought villagers in Shepley closer together.

Seventeen gardens opened their gates for a horticultural tour yesterday afternoon.

Gardens ranged from cottage-type layouts to those with grand formal lawns, terraces, ponds and many other eye-catching features.

Other attractions at the various gardens included strawberries and cream, afternoon teas, Shepley Band and a Shelley High School clarinet trio.

The day ended with hymn singing in St Paul's churchyard, accompanied by Shepley Band.

Free transport between gardens was provided by the Penistone Line Partnership yellow bus.

Householders also held plant stalls at their premises.