OVER 200 Bratton residents turned out on a sunny afternoon in January for the village’s first official Wassail event.
Wassail is an ancient tradition designed to awaken the cider apple trees and to scare away evil spirits, to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the autumn. The event was held in the parish-owned Reeve’s Orchard, which has a unique collection of apple trees, curated by Bratton volunteers. It was organised and led by Dr Daniel Loughran and his wife Anya Harvey-Loughran, who was supported by his family and members of the Selwood Morris Dancers and Folk Musicians. Dan, who is an accomplished folk musician, was master of ceremonies with Anya leading the singing.
Chair of Bratton Parish Council, cllr Keith Rayward, said, “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, and 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 Selwood Morris Dancers and Folk Musicians, with some traditional music and vigorous Morris dancing to entertain those looking on.”
