Saturday 19th October 2024
This year’s event was even more special as we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of Apple Day!
We even had Matt Weigold from BBC Radio Stoke come and visit us before the big day to talk to all things appley - Click on the media player to listen to the interview with Shep, Sue and Louie
Held in the Bridge House Hotel’s picturesque riverside gardens, there was plenty of fun to be had in the glorious sunshine, surrounded by a backdrop of vibrant autumnal colour.
Attendees not only thoroughly enjoyed browsing the craft stalls but also tucking into the delicious pork and apple burgers on offer from the bustling BBQ. St Peter’s School hosted a popular tombola, plus storytelling, apple bobbing and apple decorating kept the little ones entertained alongside local artist, Kim Greenwood’s creative embossing activity.
As always, the apple crusher and press were kept busy all day long as attendees’ harvests were processed and bottled up for them to enjoy at home. Visitors also got a taste and chance to experience some of the freshest apple juice they are ever likely to have.
Alongside the crushing, our very own apple expert, Johnnie, was not only on hand to give advice on growing the fruit but also assisted in identifying the many mystery apples people had brought along. He also introduced everyone to the most incredible tasting pineapple apples, which, whilst petite in size, packed a flavourful punch.
Creativity was also in plentiful supply with an array of mouth watering bakes entered into the apple themed bake off, including a neatly latticed pie and cake with perfectly piped frosting. Competition was particularly fierce this year with the introduction of the all new bake off trophies, hand crafted by our very own artist Kevin.
The star baker of the day was Rosie Hitch for her delicious cake laced with brandy, which we are sure in no way swayed the judge's decision what so ever...honest!
The competition didn't stop there as participants eagerly lined up for the fiercely contested Apple Wanging contest. Rob Plant reprised his role as Compère for the second year running and kept the crowds entertained throughout.
Also, for a second year in a row, both the men’s and woman’s trophies have left the village, with Ed Shenton of Oakamoor taking the title for the men and Rachel Williams - Fenton of Whiston for the women.
The entertainment continued with the very talented musical duo of Alison and Bill, which they formed especially the event and aptly named themselves “The Bramleys”.
ACE would like to thank everyone that supported, contributed, and helped make this event possible. If you attended this event and would like to give us feedback, please fill in the form here
The gentlemen and the ladies of the village will really have to up their game and training in 2025 if they want to bring the trophies home next year.