Take a bite out of parish big apple (From Ledbury Reporter)

Take a bite out of parish big apple

5:00pm Friday 28th September 2012 in News

THE parishes of Marcle Ridge, near Ledbury, will be celebrating some of Herefordshire’s most famous agricultural products during the Big Apple Harvestime on Saturday and Sunday, October 13 and 14.

Although poor weather has meant this year’s harvest is smaller than usual, local growers and cider makers are as eager as ever to showcase their produce.

The Big Apple, now in its 24th year, includes a variety of events.

The stately home Hellens in Much Marcle is the venue for A Feast of Apples on both days, with displays of fruit and tastings of dessert, cooking and cider apples. Cider, apple juice and apples will be on sale.

Also at Hellens, the impact of apples on local businesses is highlighted in two talks.

On Saturday, Fran Robinson, chair of Ledbury Food Group, will discuss Our Local Food Web.

And on Sunday, Norman Stanier of Dragon Orchard, Putley, will present Apple Apocalypse!, detailing what every fruit tree needs.

Gregg’s Pit and Lyne Down Cider will be demonstrating how they make their ciders and perries, while Westons Cider is offering tours of its orchard and plant.

There will also be organised walks and bike rides, apple-inspired lunches and teas at pubs. For details, visit bigapple.org.uk.