HEREFORDSHIRE'S cider apple trees have had a hearty ‘wake up’ during this traditional season of wassailing.

At Eardisley, Leominster Morris have already heralded this special winter tradition with torchlit folk dancing, and this Saturday the ancient custom is to be celebrated at a spot near Ledbury.

The Nest at Little Versions will play host to the wassailing ceremony - traditionally believed to awaken the cider apple trees and scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the autumn.

This weekend’s event is organised by the Big Apple Association and will get underway with a torchlight procession at 7.30pm.

Those wanting to get involved can come to The Nest at 7pm, well wrapped up for cold weather with boots and a torch. Mulled cider and Morris dancing will add to the atmosphere, and warming food and drinks available from 7pm.