A HIDDEN gem in the Wee County will open its doors to the public for the first time in 60 years this May.

Many improvements have been carried out recently at the Japanese Garden at Cowden Castle and the trustees are now looking to appoint a project manager to oversee the remaining works.

Sara Stewart, chair of the trustees at Cowden Caste SCIO, told the Advertiser: “The garden is looking stunning and a couple of new bridges are about to be constructed ready for a late spring opening.

“The Conservation Volunteers have been hard at work restoring the path, which connects the garden to an extended woodland walk.

“In addition, members of the Dry Stone Wall Association have spent many hours restoring the early 20th century causeway and east burn.”

The role for a project manager is fixed at six months to oversee the works till to be done and to prepare for the public opening, planned for Saturday, May 5, as well as to make sure the machine is well-oiled in the following weeks.

Working both on and off site until utilities are installed, the role would suit someone with experience in delivering building projects, but not necessarily large scale ones.

To ensure all licenses are in place and all regulations are met, the project manager will also liaise with the council.

A background in marketing and an interest in gardens and heritage are also beneficial.

Sara added: “As soon as we have everything in place to safely welcome the public we will open our doors.

“We will open with a temporary refreshment facility but will be applying to instal a tea room and small visitor centre in 2019.

“At the moment our priority is to find a manager to steer the project to fruition and manage the first few weeks of being open to public for the first time in 60 years.”

The role may continue on a part-time basis thereafter.

CVs along with a covering letter can be sent to info@cowdengarden.com – deadline Firday, March 16.