Wassail, Olives, Tolworth Treasure and the Apple Store






The annual wassail was held at Pensford Fields in North Sheen this afternoon. Pensford is a haven for wild flowers, birds and insects rescued from developers in the 1990's. It is a site of importance for nature conservation  and a designated area of tranquility. It also inspires art, children’s play and education. 

During proceedings the wassail master read his short poem against the cracking fire and a ukele band played sing- along - songs and we did circle dancing.



Crowning the new wassail queen

We clapped as Bella was crowned the new wassail queen and a noisy procession began. 

Fancy dress is encouraged and also any sort of instrument or implement which makes a good noise will help us scare the evil spirits away from the fruit trees in the orchard. This is a key part of the old english Wassail custom which dates back to pre-Norman times.


Cider was presented to a dressed apple tree in the  orchard. Toast was left in the tree to appease the spirits and give thanks for the fruit


Heritage apple walks of Kingston
 

per J. Lock

I am told that 70 people turned out to a Streatham Wassail. They look so beautiful dancing around the tree. The wassail cup was produced from an old trees that were removed a couple of years back. The cider was produced form Apple Day donations



For those interested in  Kingston's orchards- the leaflet mapping local the heritage apple walks - should be available in most libraries, the heritage museum as well as  the local history room. Lucy and I will be leading walks around Tolworth and the Hogsmill river from January 20th.

Of course there will be some news about the Tolworth apple store - see centre of the poster - get in touch if any of these appeal.










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