A TWENTY acre sunflower trail will be launched in weeks to raise money for the hospital that saved a boy's life when he was born prematurely.
Richard and Hazel Hoskin have created the sunflower trail on their land at Maiden Castle Farm in Dorchester, which will be in full bloom by August 9 - or sooner if the sun keeps shining.
The couple are raising money for Dorset County Hospital (DCH) and the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) - with the profits being split between the two - as a thank you for the work they both did helping their son Thomas, who was born three months early.
The trail has coincided with Thomas's 18th birthday, and the family are excited to invite guests to visit and help raise funds.
Hazel said: "This is such an important event to their family. Our son Thomas was born three months early and the care and support we received is something that we've never forgotten.
"Not only will the trail hopefully bring joy to families and nature lovers this summer, but it will raise important funds for these vital local charities."
Tickets are available to be booked online now with timed slots to help enable social distancing and give people space to enjoy the flowers.
Guests starting the trail, which takes around 40 minutes to complete, will be given a map with a quiz challenge as they arrive. There is also a shorter trail available for people with accessibility requirements.
Hazel said: "We have tried our hardest to accommodate everyone, but please remember that the sunflower trail is just a farm field, therefore it can be very bumpy and uneven underfoot.
"If you are planning a visit with family and friends with any disability and have any concerns, please call to discuss them."
Guests are welcome to bring picnics and there will be hot and cold drinks, cakes and ice cream available to buy on the farm.
After visiting the trail, access to the Maiden Castle hill fort will be free, and guests are advised to explore the site to get a different view of the sunflowers and enjoy the panoramic views of the Dorset countryside.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.maidencastlefarm.co.uk
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