Rutland Vineyard is getting ready to host its annual pick your own (PYO) sunflower event.

Since they opened in 2021, the team have hosted a range of community-focused events and fundraisers, including their PYO sunflower event, which will be going into its third year this summer.

Located on top of a narrow ridge between the rivers Welland and Chater, 70m above sea level and facing south Rutland Vineyard is located in a prime part of the county, on the border with Stamford.

160 million years ago, the land would have been England's south coast, meaning that it is made up of jurassic soils and minerals, creating a distinctive taste and stunning scenery, great for growing not only grapes, but sunflowers too.

As such, the team host their annual PYO sunflower event to raise the profile of the young business and to support local charities. This year, the are fundraising for Don't Lose Hope, a local mental health charity.

The Bourne-based charity offers a professional counselling service for all members of the community aged four and up.  This is a free service for families and individuals receiving certain state benefits, and is affordable to others.

The service is delivered by a team of qualified and experienced counsellors, in private fully equipped counselling rooms. The team rely on fundraising to ensure that they can continue to provide support within the local community.

PYO sunflowers at Rutland Vineyard in September. Image credit: Nub News.

Rutland Vineyard will be hosting their £10 all-you-can-pick fundraising day in support of the group.

While the event normally takes place over the August bank holiday weekend, this year's challenging weather and replanting has delayed the harvest.

As such, the team are prepping to host the event in early September. The team will be hosting this year's iteration on the 2 OR 9 September, depending upon the weather.

Check back in with Oakham Nub News on Facebook to find out when the day will go ahead, or check out our What's On page for more local events, fundraisers and community projects.

Find Rutland Vineyard at:

Barrowden Road

Ketton

PE9 3RJ