Some 200 Bratton residents turned out on a gloriously sunny January Sunday afternoon for Bratton’s first Wassail event. This was a local event held in the Parish-owned Reeve’s Orchard, which has a unique collection of Wiltshire apple trees, curated by Bratton volunteers.
The Wassail event was designed and organised by Dr Daniel Loughran and his wife, Anya Harvey-Loughran, who were both resplendent in their Wassail costumes. Dan, who is clearly an accomplished folk musician, was master of ceremonies with Anya leading the singing. They both were ably supported by their family, members of the Frome ‘Bounds of Selwood’ Morris Side and Folk musicians, and the very enthusiastic attendees. Thanks are due to the members of the Bratton Women’s Institute for preparing apple cake and other refreshments for the festivity.
Our Village Crier, Ray Davis, read out a Wassail poem specially written for the occasion by Sue Kemp.
The Wassail included some traditional songs, led by Daniel; the crowning of the Wassail King and libations to encourage the apple trees for the year ahead. The Wassail concluded with a racket, performed with vigour by all attending using a variety of bells, hooters, pans and loud whoops, to scare away any evil spirits that may have been lurking in the orchard.
Afterwards, festivities continued with a performance by the ‘Bounds of Selwood’ Morris Side and Folk Musicians, with some traditional music and vigorous Morris dancing to entertain those looking on.
Additional photos can be found in the Wassail Photo Gallery
