London’s hay fever remedy: The Sneeze Free Garden

As the pollen count hits its yearly high, the hay fever sufferers among us find it hard to get even a brief respite from the coughing and sneezing.

This weekend, hay fever relief brand Piriton have set up a Sneeze Free Garden at London's Southbank. Open today, tomorrow and Sunday, it aims to give sufferers a chance to enjoy the sunshine without the risk of a sneezing fit.

The pop-up garden has low-pollen plants in it, so the chance of having a hay fever attack is significantly reduced.

Adam Pasco, former editor of BBC Gardeners' World Magazine, has praised the idea, recognising what a problem the allergy can cause for sufferers.

“The thought of spending time in the garden during the height of the summer can send shivers down the spine of allergy sufferers,” he says.

“Allergic responses can be triggered by a variety of things; while some are affected by touching certain plants, others react to the pollen they produce. When it comes to planning your own garden, and the plants you choose, it's just as important to know what to put in as to leave out.”

The garden is based at Observational Point, Queen’s Walk, and will be open to the public from 10am-5pm tomorrow and Sunday.