A CIDER making is hoping for a bumper crop of apples following a pagan ceremony.

Crowds turned out for the wassail night at Sheppy's Cider, in Bradford-on-Tone.

The event aims to ward off evil spirits and bless the trees in the orchard to ensure a successful harvest.

There was music courtesy of Taunton Deane Morris Men and local folk band Fresh Air.

And there was hot food and drink on sale, along with plenty of Sheppy’s cider.

People joined in by dancing, singing and maing plenty of noise.

A percentage of the profits raised on the evening last Thursday are being donated to St Margaret’s Hospice.