Herefordshire's cider and perry producers are being promoted by a national real ale organisation this month ahead of the autumn harvest.

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has produced a new perry and cider map to encourage beer and cider drinkers to seek out and sample the beverage as part of its ‘Cider Month’ celebrations.

This includes more than 30 producers from Herefordshire, including brands such as Artistraw Real Cider in Clifford, near Hay-on-Wye and Gwatkin Cider based in Bacton, near Hereford.

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CAMRA supports and campaigns for cider and perry throughout the year, and aims to highlight it with celebrations twice a year.

These are in October and May, during which time local branches organise cider and perry events across the country.

Unlike real ale production, which can happen at any time of the year, real cider and perry is generally a seasonal product and can only be made when the fruit is ripe.

Production is tied to a natural cycle of the apple and perry pear trees found in orchards around the country.

The month of May was chosen because it is when the orchards come into bloom and fruit begins to set which will then be harvested.

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It is when cider and perry production in the previous year reaches maturity and can start being enjoyed.

Local CAMRA branches are also encouraged to organise events and activities to support cider throughout the month, such as cider trails, guides and pub visits.

In addition, CAMRA’s prestigious 'Pomona Award' is looking to honour a person, group, organisation, idea or concept that has made an outstanding achievement, commitment or contribution to the promotion of real cider or perry.

CAMRA’s real ale, cider and perry campaigns director Gillian Hough said: "The benefits of orchards for our mental health and the environment are vast.

"Now in May the trees are so beautiful with their crowns of blossoms adorning them. I urge everyone to get out, behold the beauty around us and join in."