SUB-ZERO temperatures over the weekend did not deter enthusiast revellers turning out in large numbers for the annual wassail at the 15th Century Fleece Inn, Bretforton on Saturday evening.
The ancient ceremony which takes its name from old Anglo-Saxon phrase ‘waes hael’ or be well, featured colourful and noisy displays of Morris dancing, folk music, fire and copious consumption of cider.
Historically held on the Twelfth Night, the traditional event is held to bless the orchard to ensure a bountiful harvest and plenty of cider in the coming year.
The master of ceremonies or ‘Wassail butler’ was Martin Russell from Shipston who shepherded the crowds headed by a torchlit procession into the apple orchard to lead the singing of traditional wassailing songs.
In line with convention, small pieces of toasted bread were hung on the branches of the biggest tree and offerings of cider were poured over its roots.
A single shot fired into the starry night sky by a musketeer from the Sealed Knot Society signalled to the audience to enthusiastically bang pots and pans in the final part of proceedings to wake up Mother Nature and ward off any evil spirits that might be lurking around.
Regular attendee Louise Williams from Cookhill, said: “I’ve been coming for many years and it’s an annual event not to be missed. There is a lot of fun and jolliness for all with old traditions that are being kept alive for all to enjoy.”
Landlord of the National Trust-owned inn, Nigel Smith added: “I am delighted that our annual traditional wassail here at the Fleece Inn was yet again a great success.
“We have been wassailing here for 17 years or so, and it’s always great to have so many people come along with much merriment dancing and music, along with the odd musket to keep this wonderful tradition alive and thriving. Here’s to the trees!”
The evening finished off with more folk music and Morris dancing in the medieval thatched barn.
