The Basant style fourth year birthday party proved a great success at the Hidden Gardens, last month.

Despite the threat of rain and the cold weather a staggering 500 people came along to celebrate in style.

Basant is celebrated each spring harvest in Lahore, Pakistan.  Children fly kites and this was the theme used for the day.

There was also birthday cake, badge making, juice and a chance for both adults and children to explore the gardens.

Music was provided by Kim Ho Ip and Richard Blake (yangchin and flute), Bharati Bundoo (Hindustani vocals) and Claire Hewitt (clarsach).

As well singing their own songs from Scotland, China and Pakistan they performed some collaborative songs which they had specially prepared for the day.

Since opening in 2003 the Gardens have had 120,000 visitors and won numerous awards. Around 3,000 people regularly attend the various workshops and projects that take place here.

Linda McDonald, Manager at the Gardens said, ‘I am really happy to be celebrating our fourth birthday, which has been as great success. Both the children and adults have had a great time. Each year we are growing from strength to strength and can’t believe it has already been four years. The number of people getting involved is also increasing and soon we may even need a bigger place. Here’s to another four years.’