Crowds of people ‘woke up’ the apple trees around Avebury on Saturday during the village’s Wassail.

The ancient tradition used to be carried out in cider-producing regions to encourage a successful harvest.

Villagers joined drummers, mummers and a pantomime horse called Spanker on a procession through Avebury, blessing trees along the way.

The event, organised by Gordon Rimes and Natasha Kenyon on behalf of the village orchard, started in the centre of the village. The orchard was blessed first followed by trees in people’s gardens.

When the procession arrived at Avebury Manor, volunteer John Brownell, dressed as the Lord of the Manor, and house manager Cathrien van Hak, dressed as a maid, brought out apple cake, apple juice and mulled cider for everyone.

Visitor services manager Eleanor Eaton said: “It was a really nice day. I was quite worried in the morning because it was grey and there were storms forecast but the clouds parted and there were blue skies.

“It’s only our second year of doing it so we’re still working things out but even with the stormy forecast about 150 people came out.

“There were loads of children banging pots and pans and singing and having an absolute whale of a time.

“It would be lovely to see it happen every year because it’s a really great way to get the community together.”

Wassailers also enjoyed a Mummers play and a plough blessing ceremony performed by Vicar Maria Shepherdson. The plough was taken to St James’ where the Rev Shepherdson recited a Gaelic prayer to welcome it into the church. The plough will be presented to farmers.

Money collected on the house gate will be used to buy trees for the community orchard. Last year the event raised £300 and organisers are hoping this year’s fundraising will match that.