The Wassail at Broome Farm usually takes place on Twelfth Night but this year the apple fertility ritual took place the following Saturday. The event was an altogether merry occasion with hot, mulled cider being served in the barn before John Edwards led a torchlight procession into the orchard.

Once the procession reached the orchard, twelve small bonfires, to represent each month of the year were lit and the fertility ceremony began. As small glasses of cider were distributed to each member of the crowd, the Gloucestershire Wassail Song was sung. A young boy then placed bread on the central tree and cider was poured onto the tree's roots, in the hope that in return there will be another good apple harvest next year.

Everybody then drank a toast to the tree, being encouraged to cheer and shout as loud as they could in order to ward off evil spirits. They were then treated to a small firework display, before heading back to the barn where some great home cooked pork baps, chicken pasta bake and soups were being served along with yet more mulled cider.

Some lively entertainment was provided by 'Fiddle and Squeeze', followed by 'Chicken Shed Zeppelin' a group of musicians from Brighton. A brilliant evening was had by all whilst, raising money for The Coloco Trust.

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Jim and Elin Nevin would like to welcome you to The Inn on the Wye, which is situated at Kerne Bridge, just four miles from Ross. This beautiful old coaching inn has retained all of its 18th century charm whilst offering all modern comforts, quality food and a very friendly service.

The bar at The Inn on the Wye is comfortably furnished and has leather settees to sink into in one area. Food is served in the bistro, located in the bar area all day, every day from 12:00 noon until 9:30 PM and a snack menu is available from the bar. This dining area can seat approximately fifty persons. There is also a separate, glazed conservatory dining area seating up to fourteen persons, which is also available for use as a private meeting room.....

For further information, click here to go to the Inn on the Wye page on Wyenot.com.

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