THE annual Wassail ceremony - one of the area’s favourite events of the year - has taken place at Sheppy’s Cider at Bradford-on-Tone.

This important night in the cider-making calendar celebrates the ancient ritual of orchard wassailing and helps make a dark January night full of enjoyment.

Events organiser Megan Llewellyn said: "We love welcoming locals and tourists to join in with the celebrations and help bless the trees to ensure a good harvest the following year.

"The traditions, folk dancing and warm spiced cider are all part of the fun and we are grateful to all those that could attend."

Centre of attraction was Wassail Queen Emily Railey who joined many guests for the ancient tradition in the grounds of Sheppy’s, some of whom enjoyed the event for the first time.

The ceremony is held to ward off evil spirits and to ensure the success of the harvest.