AN art exhibition and open garden has raised more than £1,200 for two charities.

We reported how Les Hammond, from Newland, near Malvern, was opening up his garden to the public, showing and selling paintings by his late wife Olive along with work by other artists.

Mr Hammond wanted to host the event in memory of his wife, who died in May, and his son Mark who passed away, aged 38, four years ago after suffering from a rare disease called neurosarcoidosis.

The money will be split equally between St Richard's Hospice and Sarcoidosis Interstitial Lung Association.

Mr Hammond said: "We made £1,200 and with gift aid we are hoping it will work out nearer to £1,500.

"There were five artists in different places in the garden, painting a picture and selling the paintings and giving the proceeds to the two charities."

Mr Hammond said the event was well supported particularly by many of his neighbours.

He said: "We had about 70 or 80 people turn up and some money was sent in as well and we had a raffle.

"I think everyone was absolutely amazed we made that much in one day.

"It was an amazing day from 11am until 5pm."

Mr Hammond has also created 2016 calendars and greeting cards using his wife's paintings which he hopes to sell to add to the total.

The event took place on Saturday, August 1 at Mr Hammon's home in Stocks Lane.

Anyone interested in donating or buying the calendars or cards should call 01886 832296.