A SOMERSET cider company has come up with an inventive way for customers to enjoy a wassail ceremony - from the comfort of their own homes.

Harry’s Cider, in Long Sutton, had been planning to host a series of bespoke small wassail ceremonies in their orchards.

But when Somerset went into Tier 4 and then we all entered a national lockdown, they had to change plans.

So they decided to create their own DIY Wassail Kit.

The kit includes a step-by-step guide to holding your own wassail ceremony, printed copies of the words of the wassail carol and shout, a bottle of Harry’s Original Cider, a flagon of Harry’s Mulled Cider and two mulled cider glasses.

“In previous years our annual wassails have been well-supported and great fun,” said Alison Chapman from Harry’s Cider Company.

“Rather than throwing in the towel altogether this year, we thought it’d be a nice opportunity to encourage even more people to get involved in this ancient tradition – something that is still very much alive across our rural counties.

“Whether or not you have an apple tree in your garden, it’s an evening’s entertainment that anyone can get involved with. Let’s face it, we’re all keen to ward off any evil spirits this year and hope that spring yields a good crop, in whatever shape or form that may be!”

Old Twelvey Night, the wassail ceremony, is traditionally held on January 17 and involves blessing the orchards, waking up the apple trees from their slumber and scaring away evil spirits to ensure a healthy crop.

The kit costs £25 and can be ordered From Harry’s Cider website.

It is also available from the Harry’s Cider farm in Long Sutton, with customers advised to check the current opening times on the Harry’s Cider website before visiting.

Anyone coming to the farm is required to wear a face covering and follow social distancing guidelines.

To find out more or to buy a wassail kit visit harryscidercompany.co.uk.