TRANSITION Town Wellington’s sustainable food group has held its annual community apple juicing session at Swains Lane Nature Reserve in the town.

The event was open to the public and about 20 people went along – some took along their own apples and others didn’t – but plenty were available to go around. 

Some people kept their apples separate to taste the different juices and others mixed varieties together.

An eating apple makes a sweeter juice but cooking apples are tarter, so a blend can be delicious. 

Everyone got stuck in and helped chop, work the apple pulping machine or twisted the press.

The hand driven machines are remarkably effective and many bottles were produced in two hours by just two presses.

Apple juice is an ideal product to make from windfall apples – many were available after Storm Callum – as they will not store.

The juice produced was taken home to either drink fresh, freeze, to make cider – for those who knew how – or to home pasteurise.

The press is for the community – anyone wants to borrow it can contact Kate on 01823 667170.

It was a lovely afternoon with a friendly, fun atmosphere, showing what great community spirit exists in Wellington. For more information on other events visit ttw.org.uk

HELEN GILLINGHAM