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Waes hal

On Sunday 15 January 2012 the Grimsby Morris men returned to our orchard for our 5th and their 30th annual Waes-hal. It was definitely the biggest, and in our opinion the best yet.The Anglo-Saxon 'waes hael' means to be healthy. Wassailing apple trees was thought to encourage a good crop. Family and friends gatherered in the orchards, usually on the Old Twelfth Night (January 17). There would be singing, dancing and drinking; frightening off the evil spirits whilst praising and toasting the 'Apple Gods'.

It was a cold but dry morning. People started to arrive from about 10.30am. A bonfire was lit to symbolize the heat and light of the coming summer. The Grimsby Morris men performed dances to a large and appreciative crowd.This was followed by a merry and noisy procession around the trees, a toast to Pomona, the Goddess of Apples, and lots of noise to frighten off the evil spirits and wake the sleeping trees. Pieces of cider-soaked toast were placed on the branches of the trees for the robins, the guardian spirits of the trees. There was more dancing and, of course, more cider and a thoroughly good time was had by all.

The festivities then moved on to the Prussian Queen. We would like to thank the Grimsby Morris men for another thoroughly enjoyable morming. There is always a wonderful atmosphere and it is fun for the whole family. We seem to be getting better crops each year, so they must doing some good.We look forward to their return next year. Please come along and join in.Have a look at www.nixpix.me for some excellent images of the day.There are also some clips on www.youtube.com, search for Skidbrooke wassail.

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