THOSE wanting to burn off the Christmas excesses can take part in the annual Barnt Green Wassail Walk on December 27.
The third annual stroll from the centre of the village to Fruitfields Orchard is being organised by Barnt Green Parish Council, in conjuction with the orchard’s bosses.
It consists of two routes – a four-mile one starting at 2.20pm and a three-mile route meeting at 2.50pm.
Two walk leaders will set off each group from Millennium Park.
It takes participants through an interesting semi-rural route to the orchard.
Wassail is an ancient Christmastide ceremony traditionally held to bring on the spring offering good wishes to fruit trees to encourage an abundant harvest.
On arrival at the orchard, walkers will be greeted by a large bonfire and served mulled cider or hot or cold apple juice.
Entertainment will be provided by melodeum players and drummers who will encourage dancing, singing and merriment prior to the toast offered to the fruit trees.
“Wassaile the trees, that they may beare
You many an apple and many a Peare:
For more or lesse fruits they will bring,
As you do give them Wassailing.”
