Frome Town Council is delighted to announce the return of Apple Day, on Saturday 19th October from 11am to 2pm at the Old Showfield.

This free event is designed to bring people together in a celebration of Frome's local environment, heritage, and harvest time. Activities on offer include crafts and games, apple pressing and tasting making willow bird feeders and wild beehives, walks and live music from Nick Ray and friends. There's also a chance to adopt one of 100 heritage apple tree saplings – suitable for smaller gardens as they're only five to six feet tall when fully grown. Local tree expert Julian Hight is hosting a guided walk, exploring veteran trees in the area.

Cllr Anita Collier said 'After a few years' gap, Apple Day is back in 2024 and we hope you'll join us to celebrate the harvest, the turning of the year and lots of delicious apples! Could you create the longest continuous piece of apple peel, make your own apple juice with our apple press…or beat the rest at a gurning contest? Join us on 19th October to celebrate autumn and the apple harvest, and look at plans for the orchard which will be on display for your comments, showcasing their work and the importance of maintaining traditional orchards for future generations. Whether you're an apple aficionado or simply enjoy spending time in nature with family and friends, there's something for everyone at this fun and friendly family event.'

Apple Day activities include:

• Apple pressing with Sustainable Frome: Bring along your apples and learn how to press them into delicious fresh juice. Don't forget to bring a container to take your juice home! There are apples available if you don't have your own.
• Wild beehive making activity (booking required)
• Willow bird feeder-making activity
• Live music on the melodeon from Nick Ray
• Crafts, games and a hedgehog trail from the Frome Shed
• Crumpets and hot and cold drinks from The Crumpeteers and cider from Dowding's
• Tree walk with Julian Hight
• Gurning competition with Rare Species Theatre Company

Frome Town Council is delighted to be working in collaboration with local environmental groups, producers, and volunteers to make this event possible. All activities are free (payment is required for refreshments) and booking is essential for some activities. Bring along your family, friends, and neighbours for a day of delicious fun. Don't forget your apples – and containers – to make the most of the apple pressing!

For more information about Apple Day and how you can get involved, visit our website or contact the Town Council at [email protected].