Woman, 86, orphaned as child opens prized garden to public to fulfill lifelong promise

Ann Lush, now 86 years old, was raised by her grandmother after her parents' death during World War Two. Growing up, Lush made a promise to herself and her grandmother that if she ever owned a home, everyone could come to visit. This promise led her to open her picturesque garden in Penarth to the public, raising money for a children's charity, The Children's Society.

In 1996, Lush and her late husband, Dennis, founded the Penarth Open Gardens event, which charges £1 per person to enter her garden. Over the past 30 years, the event has grown to include dozens of gardens annually, raising over £130,000 for the charity. Lush's grandmother initially disallowed her from inviting friends to the house, but she vowed to help any child she could as she grew older.

Now, Lush's garden serves as a peaceful sanctuary, attracting visitors who appreciate the tranquility it offers.