'˜Wonderful village' enjoysan apple extravaganza

The day returned to the village for its third year on Saturday and scores of families made the most of the entertainment.

There was apple pressing, face painting, apple-themed arts and crafts, apple bobbing, a cider bar and a cookery contest.

The event was the brainchild of independent wine shop owner Janine Pert, who has lived in the village for nearly 30 years.

She said: ‘Denmead is a wonderful village with residents of all ages who enjoy this kind of community event, so it’s a real pleasure to be involved.

‘The Apple Festival grows in popularity each year and we always try to add something new. This year visitors were able to buy fruit trees and children were invited to come and make apple monsters.’

Enjoying the day was the Kendrick family, from Denmead. Seven-year-old Reggie and his sister Mabel, four, were at the day with dad Ben, 35, and mum Gemma, 36. The children had helped to create the colourful bunting at school.

Reggie said: ‘I liked building the apple monster, it was good fun.’

Ben said: ‘I think the festival is great. I have lived in Denmead for 35 years and it’s good to see events like this. It’s not the biggest festival but it’s nice for the community to come along and enjoy.’

There were a variety of stalls selling different wares, including a stall from Rumsey Gardens, in Clanfield, run by husband and wife Derek and Margaret Giles, who were selling trees.

Derek said: ‘People are interested, they have come along to observe and take on board all the advice. This event is about connecting with the locals.’

Kevin Andreoli, parish council chairman, said: ‘Lots of people turned up and had great fun. Events like this bring the village together and help to promote the shops.’

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