'Walsall Wassail'

On Sunday January 22nd the tranquility of Walsall Arboretum was broken by the noise of drums and clattering pots and pans when, following a tree-planting ceremony in the Community Orchard, a traditional orchard wassailing took place.

This involved the driving away of 'evil spirits' and toasting the health of the trees with offerings of cider-soaked toast to encourage growth and a good autumn harvest. The ceremony was conducted by tree warden Shelley Griffiths and the musical accompaniment to the Wassail Songs was provided by local resident Rob Poole.

Following the ceremonial ritual, residents whose properties overlook the orchard together with Tree Wardens, enjoyed a communal 'get-together'. All who attended were treated to a variety of apple/pear-based cakes made by the residents and washed down with mulled cider made from local apples supplied by Richard Pollard.

It was generally agreed that this was a great opportunity for residents to learn about the Orchard, enjoy a 'neighbourly 'get together' and continue this ancient British tradition.