A GARDENER has created an urban oasis that he will be opening up to the public as part of a national event.

Andrew Bliss, of St John's Road, in Walthamstow, has been selected to take part in the National Garden Scheme to open up his patio to the public.

The former interior decorator, who also makes furniture, is hoping his Morrocan-themed area, water feature and wide variety of flowers and plants will impress visitors.

The 46-year-old said: "The organisers are trying to encourage more people with smaller gardens and city gardens to take part. Mine is just a patio with everything in pots, but they loved it.

"I have since been working fantastically hard to get it looking great. It is like a little oasis in the suburbs."

The garden will be open over three weekends in June, on 17/18, 26/27 and 24/25.

Visitors are asked for a £2.50 contribution which goes to charity.

For more information about this and other gardens in the scheme, visit The National Gardens Scheme at www.ngs.org.uk