GLORIOUS Bank Holiday weekend weather set the scene for the Big Apple Cider and Perry Trials, in Putley Parish Hall.

More than 65 makers submitted over 180 entries for this peer-judged competition.

And in keeping with the rural setting, Graham Harvey, the agricultural story editor of The Archers radio soap, was at hand to congratulate winners on the results, in a packed hall.

A spokesman said: "Not content with being voted Champion Cidermaker in 2017, Bartestree Cider Company had a clean sweep this year as they walked away with trophies for both Champion Cidermaker and Champion Perrymaker.

"Meanwhile, Best Product in Show went to Gregg’s Pit Cider and Perry of Much Marcle for their Draught Sweet Perry. The Novice Cider Class was won by Lucie Mayerova, who also took a third prize in the main competition for her Draught Medium Perry."

The spokesman added: "Missing from this year’s proceedings was founder member of the Big Apple, Jean Nowell, whose death last November was lamented by the many cider and perrymakers that she inspired and supported over the years.

"The Cider and Perry Trials were started in 1992 at Jean’s suggestion as a peer judged competition, in order to give cider and perrymakers an opportunity to share ideas and learn from each other and to taste each other’s products."

"The public flocked to taste all the entries over two days, as part of Blossomtime in Putley event. They were able to add to the experience with purchases from eight local cidermakers and tutored tastings by Gabe Cook."

Hundreds of visitors enjoyed walks through the orchards, where the blossom made a last-minute appearance prompted by the sunny weather over the previous week.

A number of local groups were raising funds, including Aylton Church, Tarrington Brownies, Little Marcle Church, Putley Parish Hall and Putley WI.

The spokesman said: "During their appearance on Sunday, Leominster Morris danced their blessing in memory of Jean Nowell and the many happy visits they made to Lyne Down in the early days of the Big Apple."

A full list of winners in all classes can be found at https://www.bigapple.org.uk/wp/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/public_result_list_2018.pdf.

The next Big Apple event will be the Harvestime event in Much Marcle on October 13 and October 14.