Traditional wassailing ceremony in Ketton attracts 100 residents
An ancient tradition was upheld in a village over the weekend with about 100 people joining in.
Residents of Ketton joined together to bless and celebrate fruit trees as part of the wassailing event held on Saturday (January 22) in Hall Close.
The event has been taking place since 2016.
Mary Cade, a councillor for Ketton Parish Council and organiser of the event, said: "It is an ancient tradition lost in time and we focus on revival."
Toast was laid at the bottom of the trees and cider was poured over the roots.
Woodsman Jason Naylor kept the brazier roaring and Martin Smith was the master of ceremony.
Mary said: "Everyone is invited to make as much noise as possible, people used to bring shotguns but now we encourage them to bring pots and pans."
The aim of this is to scare away evil spirits and encourage the trees to bear fruit later in the season.
Entertainment was provided by Rutland Morris Men and Ketton Community Choir sang traditional wassail songs.
After the ceremony, the people that attended walked to St Mary's Church where handbell ringers performed on the porch.
Usually everyone is invited to the pub afterwards but sadly this was not possible due to coronavirus.
Tins were placed around the event to raise money for the Air Ambulance Service and a total of £50 was raised.
"It is important as it is a tradition and people like to connect with their area," Mary said.
"It is an opportunity for the community to get together and have a sing and a laugh."
