Large numbers of spectators flocked to watch traditional wassailing ceremonies in the Burnham-On-Sea area on Saturday night (January 14th).
Bitterly cold weather failed to hit attendance levels at the events at Rich’s Cider in Watchfield, pictured here, and at Chestnut Farm in Edithmead.
The wassail is celebrated each year around ‘Old Twelvey Night’ as it would have been before the introduction of the Gregorian Calendar in 1752.
In line with tradition, a piece of cider-drenched burnt toast was placed in an apple tree by the Wassailing Queen, supposedly to attract robins who symbolise the good spirits of the orchard. Shotguns were fired to ward off bad spirits.
Jan Scott from Rich’s Cider in Watchfield told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We had a record turnout with well over 500 people. Our event was raising funds for the The League of Friends at Burnham-On-Sea Hospital and local Rotary charities and we hope to have raised a good sum.”
Meanwhile, Brent Knoll’s West Croft Cider Farm will hold its wassailing evening this Saturday (21st January) from 7pm. Tickets are priced at £11 with accompanied children under 14 free.
Entrance will be by ticket and will include a glass of mulled cider, plus free samples of a selection of ciders. Reserve your ticket by calling 01278 760 762 or via Westcroft Farm or Brent Knoll Village Shop.
Pictured: Saturday’s wassailing at Rich’s Cider Farm (photos George Scott)
Also see:
What’s on in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge
