Earth Granny
Around 100 people congregated just before sunset at the Quadrants in Levenshulme for this year’s wassail on Sunday 6th January. After wassails in earlier years, then a break in 2018, the Friends decided to celebrate the orchard trees once again. New this year was the Earth Granny, in her pinny, declaiming “Wassail Wassail” – chanting her poem to bless the trees, their roots and the worms. Old Father Time made his usual appearance and the Choir with No Name sang three songs, wonderfully.
Attendees were offered cakes, mulled cider and apple juice, provided by Pam and Angelique and other helpers. Brenda lent her gazebo and reusable cups. People brought food to share. We made a ceremonial tour of the orchard to hang toast dipped in cider on the trees to ward off evil spirits and ensure good cropping; and the occasion was completed with a roaring bonfire looked after by Ian and Farooq. A short firework display brought a sparkling end to proceedings!
Thanks to everyone from the local community who attended and contributed to the lively spirit of the event!
[…] who are connected with the Loop, or have any concerns about safety on it. Lucy joined us at the very successful wassail that we held on 6 January at the Levenshulme […]