A COMMUNITY orchard celebrated the 10-year anniversary of its popular Apple Day.

Organisers said the event on Saturday was a resounding success.

Paul Arthur, secretary of Bridport Community Orchard group committee, said: "Several hundred people turned out to benefit from a cloudy but dry and warm day, to enjoy the annual celebration of everything apple. There was a wide range of attractions to suit all age groups, ranging from den building and pond dipping for children, to freshly pressed apple juice for everybody to savour. As well as acoustic music and Morris dancing, for the first time this year the audience was delighted by a performance of the Anna Golding Dance Group, and the event finale was an Apple Day Mummers Play led by the wonderfully charismatic Martin Maudsley. This went down a storm, transfixing children and adults alike. Edible enjoyments included ploughman’s lunches, cider and delicious cakes."

He added: "This successful event would not be possible without the help and hard work provided by a large dedicated band of volunteers, and the very kind offerings from our donors and sponsors, who include Ford Farms, Elwell Fruit Farm, and Groves Nurseries. The Walditch WI did sterling work providing refreshments. Proceeds from the event go towards the ongoing support and maintenance of the community orchards, ensuring that the whole community continues to benefit from a maturing unique asset that is a jewel in Bridport’s crown."