Wassail, Olives, Tolworth Treasure and the Apple Store
The annual wassail was held at Pensford Fields in North Sheen this afternoon. Pensford is a haven for wild flowers, birds and insects rescued from developers in the 1990's. It is a site of importance for nature conservation and a designated area of tranquility. It also inspires art, children’s play and education. During proceedings the wassail master read his short poem against the cracking fire and a ukele band played sing- along - songs and we did circle dancing. Crowning the new wassail queen We clapped as Bella was crowned the new wassail queen and a noisy procession began. Fancy dress is encouraged and also any sort of instrument or implement which makes a good noise will help us scare the evil spirits away from the fruit trees in the orchard. This is a key part of the old english Wassail custom which dates back to pre-Norman times. Cider was presented to a dressed apple tree in the orchard. Toast was left in the tree to appease the s...