"I NEVER promised you a rose garden," the song goes.

Shuttifield garden and woodland at Birchwood, Storridge, which opens to the public this Saturday, exceeds all promise.

Owners Angela and David Judge created the garden from scratch in 1981 and are pleased to open them to the public under the NGS Yellow Book scheme.

The couple supports various charities, many of which are cancer related, particularly relevant since David was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The National Garden Scheme began as a way of raising pension funds for district nurses, and most of the charities to which the NGS donates money remain nursing and cancer orientated.

At Shuttifield, the formal garden around the house contains extensive mixed borders of unusual trees, shrubs and perennials, colour themed to give interest throughout the year.

An old rose garden has been created in an area of woodland where rhododendrons and azaleas also grow.

The 25-acres house an enormous number of plants, with a significant presence of wildlife, including 70 species of birds, badgers and muntjac deer.

"To me it's a nice way of raising money for charity," said Angela, admitting her garden is otherwise a very private pleasure.

She particularly enjoys the interaction with fellow gardeners, who exchange tips and ideas.

"I like to feel people have enjoyed the day out," she said.

For details call 01886 884243.