The rain did not stop the community from turning out for the annual Weylands Wassail on Sunday 8th February.
Residents gathered at the Weylands Orchard for the centuries-old practice of wassailing which aims to encourage a good harvest and bring people together in community at the coldest and darkest time of the year.
Mayor of Frome Cllr Anita Collier said, “It was opened by Frome’s Town Crier, Martin Scott, reminding us all of the good things that happen in Frome and a great atmosphere with much banging of pots and pans designed to wake the trees from their winter sleep. I was charged with blessing the apple trees with cider and reciting a rhyme in the hope of an abundant crop this year. Offerings were gifted to the trees in the shape of toast attached to ribbons and the orchard was ablaze with colour.
“Regardless of the weather, there were happy faces and several people choosing to make their own crown with ribbons, sticks and greenery and wassail sticks with ribbons and bells. Dancing, singing and craft stalls all helped to brighten the day.
“Mulled cider and mulled apple juice were in plentiful supply to keep us warm and the weather did nothing to stop everyone from having a good time.
“It was good to see the Frome Street Bandits playing for the last half hour and huge thanks to Annabelle McFadyen and Charly Le Marchant for reviving such a fabulous, centuries-old tradition by bringing back our annual Wassail. Great fun.”
