A total of 12 widely varied gardens will be open in the village and along the dale, including many dating back more than a century.

Among them is a wildlife garden at the village school which the children help care for and extensive vegetable plots, one established in a former garth and some incorporating ponds and woodlands. In addition there will be musical performances, a craft and plant fair and the ever-popular annual scarecrow display.

Spokesman Paul Wood said: “We had about 60 scarecrows on display last year with many of them based on topical television programmes.

“Their main theme is humour – they provide a good laugh to ensure our visitors really enjoy themselves.”

The scarecrows appear throughout the village, some of them driving cars or herding sheep.

The annual event raises money for the Yorkshire and Great North Air Ambulances, local charities and good causes. Last year’s attracted several hundred visitors and raised around £5,000.

Gardens are open this year from 11am to 5pm each day. Entry to all 12 gardens and attractions including musical performances, craft and plant fair and the traditional village scarecrow display is £4 per adult, under-16s free.

Tickets are valid over the weekend and are available at The Robinson Institute, Glaisdale Church Room and some gardens on the day. Refreshments will be available at the Robinson Institute and some gardens.

Whitby’s Caedmon School orchestra will play at Thorneywaite House from 2.30-3.30pm on Saturday and The North Skelton Brass Band will play at The Robinson Institute from 2-4pm on Sunday.