The sunflower fields at Darts Farm in Topsham near Exeter are once again open for pick-your-own and the proceeds raised from the enterprise over the past ten years have raised nearly £27,000.

Darts Farm's pick-your-own sunflowers have become one of the highlights of the summer for visitors and locals, with all money raised going direct to local charity, Hospiscare.

Children and adults enjoy wandering in the field to choose their own sunflowers to take home with a donation.

Owner Michael Dart said: “Over the past 10 years our pick-your-own sunflowers have raised a total of £26,978 for this incredibly important charity. Hospiscare offers free support and expert care for those with a terminal diagnosis in the local Devon community and provides a vital source of support of their families at times of real need. We are delighted our sunflowers contribute to this valuable cause.”

Last year generous pickers helped to raise a record-breaking £6,153.89.

James Dart added: “The sunflowers provide not only beauty but much needed food for wildlife and under threat bees. Once the sunflowers die down, they are enjoyed by our winged visitors, who enjoy feasting on the seeds. We choose to grow sunflowers as they are happy flowers and the perfect gift to bring joy to someone."