Evergreen Su is the Hi-de-Hi surprise

11:29am Monday 16th May 2005

NEIGHBOURS who opened their gardens to the public were joined by a surprise celebrity guest.

Su Pollard, the actress most famous for her role in BBC sitcom Hi-de-Hi, called in last Sunday to look around the five gardens in Elmsdale Road, Walthamstow.

The event was organised as part of the National Garden Scheme to raise money for the charities, Marie Curie Cancer Care and Macmillan Cancer Relief.

Just over £1,300 was collected from the sale of tickets, refreshments and cakes.

Chris Franche, organiser and Elmsdale Road resident, said around 200 visitors helped to make the day a great success.

Neil Gerrard, MP for Walthamstow, officially opened the gardens and enjoyed taking a look round.

Ms Franche said: "This was the first year that we've had such a well known celebrity joining us. It was great.

"Su Pollard is a friend of one of the neighbours and she stopped by for a couple of hours, had a good look round and chatted with the visitors.

"The day is really about community spirit and trying to help the charities. Everybody had a good time and we're hoping to hold the event again next year."