Despite the imminent arrival of Storm Isha, Bishop Sutton Wassail went ahead as planned and a good time was had by all.

Wassailing, an annual Somerset tradition of blessing orchards to ensure a good harvest for the year to come, is a celebration involving music, dancing and singing.

The event, at Gramble Orchard in the village, is hosted by Alistair and Abbey Pearson and this year raised money for the 2nd Clutton Scouts and the Sutton Theatre Company.

Master of Ceremonies, Colin Emmett, crowned King Sid as Wassail King and then they led a procession around the orchard to start the Wassail ceremony.

There were all the traditional elements: cider-soaked toast, morris dancing, a wassail song and the banging of saucepans and the rattle of shakers scaring the evil spirits away, plus Bishop Sutton’s own addition, a Green Man (Nick Warbrick).

A huge bonfire kept people warm as they enjoyed the warm spiced cider and hot dogs.

Abbey Pearson, who hosts the event in the village, told The Gazette: “Village Wassail is always our favourite tradition to brighten a gloomy January weekend, but this year seemed even more special.

“To see so many happy faces enthusiastically dancing and singing through the storm really warmed our hearts!

“Thank you to you all for awakening the trees!”

Next year’s event is already under discussion.