Transition Town Wellington’s yearly apple harvesting begins in earnest tomorrow (Saturday) with hand apple pressing at Swains Lane Nature Reserve from 2pm to 5pm.
This event coincides with the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the reserve which was saved from development after the discovery of an endangered species of newt in the pond in the lower field.
Anyone can take along apples picked elsewhere or at Swains Lane orchards to have them pressed and the juice bottled in their own containers.
TTW will also be demonstrating the art of scything – recognised widely as an important aspect of supporting and encouraging biodiversity – at the apple pressing.
Throughout the rest of the month, various apple-picking sessions will be taking place at local orchards.
The apples will be then pressed, pasteurised and bottled at Brendon Orchards on Wednesday, September 30th. The juice will be on sale at various local outlets to raise funds for the environmental organisation.
Apple picking dates are as follows:
Tuesday, September 22nd, at Milverton from 2pm to 4pm and then from 4pm to 6pm.
Wednesday, September 23rd, at Spring Grove from 2pm to 4pm.
Thursday, September 24th, at Rewe Farm from 2pm to 4pm.
Monday, September 28th, at Swains Lane from 2pm to 4pm.
Everyone is welcome to join volunteers at any of the sessions.
Information about transport and location can be found on apples@ttw.org.uk