A CHARITY open garden event at historic Tendring Hall smashed records to raise more than £5,000 for Clacton’s lifeboat.

Gardens at the country house, in Tendring village, were open over the late May bank holiday in aid of Clacton RNLI.

Alongside wonderful displays of rhododendrons and azaleas, there was music, dance, wildlife stands, country craft stalls and children’s activities.

Fundraising chairman Steve Cole said it was the event’s fifth year the event has been held.

He thanked all those who helped to stage the event and entertain visitors, He added: “We hope that all the visitors enjoyed themselves and hope to see them all next year, when we will do it all again.

“Fingers crossed we will surpass this year’s record achievement.”

Entertainment included the St Osyth Line Dancing Group, Fantari Dancers and Harwich Morris Men.

Mr Cole added that this year’s total was the best ever raised at the event.