Celebrate the New Year with Traditional Wassailing Ceremony

People of all ages are invited to join the county’s largest nature conservation charity to encourage a good fruit harvest for the New Year.

Sunday 15th January sees the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust stage it’s popular annual wassailing ceremony at its Wolseley Centre HQ, near Rugeley.

The ancient custom involves driving evil spirits out of trees and encouraging good spirits in the hopes of producing a bumper crop for the coming year. The even kicks off with traditional clog & morris dancing, as well as a variety of stalls & family crafts. Then visitors will be invited to take part in ancient customs – including singing and dancing around the trees.

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Sam Pachner, Conference and Events Officer at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust said, “The wassail is a wonderful family-orientated event, with visitors not only treated to some wonderful traditional entertainment, but also given the chance to learn about some fascinating ancient traditions while keeping warm with our hot apple punch.”

The event takes place 3.30pm- 5.30pm, with a £1 suggested minimum donation per person. Visitors are asked to wear suitable footwear and clothing for the event and should bring a torch or lantern for the orchard walk.

The Wolseley Centre is located on the A51 between Stafford and Rugeley. For more information call the Trust on 01889 880100.

James Du Pavey - Stone

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