A miniature world within a garden has been created by a green-fingered couple in Barkingside who will open their door for charity. The garden includes a working railway system with a village complete with cottages and a pub.

Throughout the garden various themes are incorporated including the seaside, woodlands and even a Japanese space.

Maureen Keating, of 254 Ashurst Drive, said: “It’s a bit of a labour of love. We are out there for a few hours each day, I think it’s very relaxing and it’s very rewarding.”

The garden will be opening on Sunday, July 22 in aid of St Francis Hospice, Havering-atte-Bower from 12.30-5pm.

Last year Maureen, together with her partner Mike Hacker, raised more than �700 for charity with 130 people visiting. “People who come to the garden can take away ideas that they can use themselves,” said Maureen.

Although the garden is only 30ft by 40ft it has seven water features including a waterfall, log water feature and glass bottle installation and six seating areas.

Maureen said: “Depending on the time of day you can sit in the sun. We do use the garden a lot. I love seeing the plants bloom, it’s fantastic.”

The garden has got through to the final 12 from more than 1,200 entries for a national newspaper competition with a decision on the final four expected this week.

“We have had no professional help, what we can do anyone can do,” said Maureen. “When people come and see it they say, ‘I can do that in my own garden’.”

For �2.50 you can have a look around the garden as well as picking up ideas and tips by talking to the owners and other gardeners.

Maureen added: “If you want to keep your plants you have to do deadheading religiously which is taking off the blooms which are fading and making room for the new blooms to grow.”