Bumper cider celebration planned for Bath and West Show

The ‘Celebration of Cider and Orchards’ section at this year’s Royal Bath and West Show promises to be the biggest and busiest ever.

The Show, held between June 2-5, near Shepton Mallet, Somerset - http://www.bathandwest.com/royal-bath-west-2010/97/ - is one of the premier shows of its kind in the country and this year will again be home to the UK’s biggest cider competition when visitors will be able to see a record entry of 351 entries in the Cider, Perry and Apple Juice classes compete for the Supreme Championship.

But that is not all. A wide range of cider and perry activities have been arranged for the four days of the event which should appeal to everyone with an interest in the industry, or would like to learn more about this important part of our rural heritage.

This year, the Pavilion Theme is “Wessex”, in honour of Show President, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, and on Saturday the Langport Mummers will perform King Alfred and the Viking. 

Visitors will be able to watch the cider judging, and Tutored Cider Tasting sessions will explain the characteristics and pleasures of different types of quality cider.

Traditional cidermaking by the Woodlanders is paired with Vigo’s demonstrations of the latest juice making equipment for the home – and there are examples of ancient cider presses and you will find advice on looking after apple trees.

There are also book signings and cider clinic and demonstrate by a master cooper and on the Thursday something that promises to be especially unusual and spectacular an Asturian Cider Throwing Demonstration by Natalia Menendez Ruiz! 

Add in some Wassailing, a Mummers play and a jazz band and it promises to be a visit both to be informed and entertained.

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