Credit crunch is blamed for gardens closing

The picturesque gardens at one of Mole Valley's historic homes will not open to the public in 2010.

The Beaverbrook Foundation has blamed the credit crunch and the weather for its decision to close the gardens at Cherkley Court, in Reigate Road, Leatherhead.

Sad: 16,000 people visited the gardens last year and enjoyed the breathtaking views Photo No: RSMD4014-8
Stunning: The gardens at Cherkley Court will not open to the public next year Photo No: RSMD4014-6
Beautiful: Wet summers and the economic climate have been blamed for the gardens closure

The 16-acre gardens opened to the public in 2006 but has struggled, despite attracting more than 16,000 visitors this year.

A spokeswoman said: "After three challenging years, we have reluctantly decided that the gardens will not be open to the public in 2010.

"The decision follows two consecutive wet summers and the general economic conditions.

"We, as a registered charity, have supported Cherkley Court with the view that the business would become self-supporting, but this no longer looks possible.

"All events and weddings booked next year in the house will be hosted as planned."

The news of the closure has saddened Fetcham resident David Varley.

He said: "I thought it was very nice there and it's very sad that the gardens are closing because the view over the valley was unbelievable.

"There is a lot of history at Cherkley Court and I know the foundation spent a lot of money doing the house and gardens up.

"I know a lot of people who have been there and been impressed with it so I think there will be quite a few people sad to hear about this."

Graeme and Rachel Leggett married in front of family and friends at Cherkley Court in June.

The couple said they had a "fantastic" wedding and reception at the home and that the garden's stunning views played a big part on their day.

Mr Leggett said: "I am amazed that they are shutting it because the gardens are really beautiful there.

"It is sad that people won't be able to visit the gardens and see the views we, and our guests, enjoyed on our wedding day."

Cherkley Court was once the home of former press baron William Maxwell Aitken, the 1st Lord Beaverbrook, who used to entertain the likes Rudyard Kipling and Winston Churchill at the property.

During the Second World War the house was also an important centre for Lord Beaverbrook's activities as Minister for Aircraft Production and a key member of Churchill's War Cabinet.