A FUNDRAISING gardener took his volunteers out for tea to thank them for helping him to raise money for charity.

Driftwood Garden in Seaford has been open by appointment since 2009 and has raised thousands.

Its founder, Geoff Stonebanks, took volunteers out for high tea to thank them for their hard work.

He said: "Without the undying support of this fabulous group of people it would not have been impossible to open the garden.

"From selling entrance tickets or raffle tickets through to serving the tea and cakes in the kitchen, they are invaluable."

The group munched on cake and scones at Church Lane Tea Room in Church Street, Seaford.

"It was all really a means to an end to get them to help again in 2016 on one of the garden's scheduled 16 openings," Mr Stonebanks joked.

Volunteer Linda Wallraven said: "We all love helping out at Driftwood and appreciate the invite to tea."

Driftwood has opened 100 times since 2009, with 12,549 visitors viewing the small but abundant plot, featuring climbing roses, tropical palms, jungles and a butterfly garden, to name just a few of its attractions.

See www.driftwoodbysea.co.uk.