08 Jan 2025
An ancient tradition to ward off evil spirits and ensure a good crop of apples returned to Highfield Park at the weekend.
Wassailing involves using pots, pans, drums and anything else that could raise an almighty din to scare away malevolent forces from the orchard.
The word ‘Wassail’ is derived from the Old Norse “Ves heill”, from whence came the Old English salutation “Wes Hal”, meaning “Be in good health”. The correct response is “Drinc hael” – “I drink to your health”.
Tim Abbott from Highfield Park Trust said: “The Trust’s unique take on this century’s old tradition is more panto than pagan and once again a hundred or so Wassailers joined the Trust in awakening their apple trees from their winter slumber. A good crop can only be guaranteed if the evil spirits are scared away and this is achieved by the Wassailers making as much noise as possible.
“The Wassailers met at the Visitor Centre and sang the Wassail Song. They then appointed the Wassail Queen who soaked pieces of toast with apple juice from last year’s crop. The Wassail Possession slowly marched to Cell Barnes Orchard. Torches led the way. Once at the Orchard, children hung the slices of toast in the trees to attract the good spirits to protect the trees. The event ended back at the Visitor Centre for a cup of mulled cider for the adults and squash for the children. As someone once said, it’s brilliant but bonkers.”
Photos: Austin Guest.
