A GARDEN oasis in Halesowen is opening for the public next month as part of the National Gardens Scheme.

Peter Bridgens, who is also Halesowen's most tattooed man, and Michael King have created one of the most unique gardens in the Midlands at their Landsdowne Road home.

The pair are opening their garden, part of which resembles a "jungle" on Sunday, July 6, from 12.30pm until 5.30pm to raise cash for charity.

Mr Bridgens said: "Last year we raised nearly £1,000 for charity and we will be serving teas and there will also be plants for sale.

"The National Garden Scheme's charities this year help people who suffer with cancer and alzheimers and those in hospices."

The 63-year-old, whose grandfather was head gardener at Alton Towers before World War One, is looking forward to meeting fellow horticulturists during the open day.

He said: "We have done a lot of work to bring the garden up to an acceptable standard for the scheme.

"You have to be able to sustain the interest of a plantsman or woman for 45 minutes and the quality of horticulture has to be exceptional,”

Entrance to the garden on Sunday, July 6, is £3.50.