THE time is almost here again for the annual Big Apple Harvestime Celebrations, which will put the spotlight once more on orchards and apple culture in the Much Marcle area, near Ledbury.
A spokesman said: "Herefordshire has plenty of reasons to celebrate English apples, orchards and cider and the annual Big Apple weekend offers a special opportunity to enjoy the autumn countryside on the Marcle Ridge.
"The event is based on eight venues in and around Much Marcle, and cider and perry making will be in full swing. There will be plenty of opportunities to taste, buy and, in some cases, to try your hand."
The spokesman added: "The Big Apple is not only about cider – a ‘Feast of Apples’ at Hellens will feature displays, tastings and sales of some of the less usual dessert and culinary apples, and Marcher Apple Network will be identifying apples throughout the weekend.
"And the Herefordshire Beekeepers Association will pay a return visit with their annual honey show."
The programme features a number of special events. ‘Common Bond 2’ will see the bringing together of a collection of portraits of nearby cider- and perry-makers, seen through the eyes of their friend and mentor Jean Nowell.
The spokesman added: "This will be a special opportunity to commemorate Jean’s contribution to cidermaking. She was known by many and celebrated for the cider and perry she made at Lyne Down.
"Internationally renowned cider expert Gabe Cook will present his new book ‘Ciderology’, which contains 'anything and everything you have ever needed to know about cider'."
The spokesman said: "Gabe will share his passion for all things cider and perry, which began right here on his 'home turf' and now extends around the globe. Gabe will also be popping up with tastings at various venues throughout the weekend."
Local orchards will provide the setting for visits from Leominster Morris and ukulele band ‘Uke Can’t be Serious’.
The Big Apple Harvestime celebrations will take place on October 13 and October 14.
A full programme of events can be found at www.bigapple.org.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bigappleherefordshire
Twitter: @TheBigAppleHfd
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