THE Big Apple is hosting a special event for May.

The Blossomtime: A Celebration of Orchards event will take place on Sunday (May 4) and Monday (May 5) at Putley and Aylton.

Herefordshire residents are invited to explore the blossom-covered orchards of the Marcle Ridge and sample locally-made food and drink.

The area is home to an increasing number of artisan cider makers and there will be a chance to visit the Grand Cider Tasting at Putley Village Hall on the Sunday between 2pm and 6pm and on the Monday between 12 and 5pm. Here perries, ciders and apple juices will be available to taste, and some to buy.

There will also be the opportunity to join guided walks through the orchards including the Natural History of Orchards Walk hosted by the Ornithological Club on the Monday at 10.30am.

Leaflets for self-guided walks are also available.

For those with a creative streak, there will be a Child’s View drop-in session on the Sunday between 12.30pm and 2.30pm for families.

Once equipped with canvas, participants can create art, reflecting a scene or idea that has caught their interest.

Visitors can then also relax for an hour at the Big Hug, set amid Dragon Orchard while Wye Theatre perform a recital of Cider with Rosie at 4.30pm on the Monday.

Full programme at bigapple.org.uk.