WELL over 1000 people attended Porlock Apple Press and Rural Crafts Festival to see the way things were done in years gone by.

The old ‘Somerset Pattern’ oak press took centre stage, pressing fruit donated from orchards within a mile or so from Porlock.

Thanks to Derek Purvis, of Porlock Apple Press Group, the press was brought to Porlock from elsewhere in Somerset, and renovated to working condition.

Several hundred gallons of juice was squeezed from apples pulped in a 100-year-old ‘scratting’ mill, powered by a 1936 Lister stationary engine.

Other traditional crafts were also demonstrated and displays included a collection of working vintage stationary engines and farming implements - and home made ‘appley’ fare was showcased.

Porlock Apple Press Group is made up of enthusiasts whose aim is to preserve the cider making history of the community in and around the Vale of Porlock, and the associated aspects of rural life when cider making was an important part of the economy, and community life.

Photos: Maureen Harvey