Adstockistan’s first Wassail was held on 31st January 2016, on a blustery evening that failed to dampen the spirits of all who came to bless the orchard and ward off any evil spirits.
The evening started with an excellent display of dancing from the Owlswick Morris, concluded with a raucous rendition of ‘Here we Come A-Wassailing’.
We than moved into the orchard and Vicar Ros, who was the driving force behind the event, conducted the blessing. The intention was to light flares to represent the disciples, with the last one, representing Judas, snuffed out before it could take hold. Unfortunately the wind had other ideas and all lights ended up the same way as number 13. This did not deter Ros who conducted a characteristically enthusiastic and lively first Wassail for our Orchard, coordinating the chorus of pot and pan bashing and shotguns to frighten off anything spiritual or animal that could damage the trees over the coming year.
The gathering then moved down to the village hall for some more dancing and some well deserved mulled cider provided by the Old Thatched Inn.
A hat was passed around for the Owlswick Morris, who very kindly decided to donate to Afghanaid – a very generous gift which has been gratefully received.
