A hundred people of all ages took part in the revival of a Midsomer Norton Wassail tradition last Saturday, 14th January, which began with a short talk on the history of Wassailing by Kilmersdon’s Martin Horler in the Town Hall.
The Wassailers then made their way through the High Street, led by musicians, to ‘wake up’ four new apple trees planted in memory of Town notables, David Strawbridge, David Fisher, Ted Hallam and Norman Voake, returning finally to tuck into apple cake in the Assembly Room.
“Saturday’s Wassail event had a wonderful community charm and energy all of its own, and special thanks are due to the Midsomer Norton Society and the Midsomer Norton Community Trust for organising it, and to all those who took part. I feel sure that this will become a regular part of the town’s calendar in years to come”, said Paul Myers, Mayor of Midsomer Norton.
Wassailing is an ancient custom that was once popular throughout Somerset, where locals would visit apple orchards and recite rhymes or sing songs to awaken the trees and encourage a good harvest.