Learn how to sing to trees and make a racket

People are being invited to a workshop to learn how to sing to trees, bang old saucepans and make a racket.

The traditional English wassail is a custom at the start of January to ensure a good harvest of apples later in the year.

South Kesteven District Council is offering the free workshop ahead of the Stamford Wassail parade on Saturday 3 January.

Deputy leader councillor Paul Stokes said: "We're very pleased to be able to support this rowdy Old English orchard wassailing festival, which was traditionally held on the old Twelfth Night."

The workshop runs from 14:30 GMT to 16:00 at Christchurch in Green Lane, where all materials and tuition will be available.

Those taking part will be able to make their own lantern to use in the procession, which begins at 16:00.

The parade will start from Christchurch and end at Stamford Community Orchard, at the end of Christ Church Close, at 16:30, where celebrations will last for about an hour.

People are invited to bring torches, whistles, ribbons, sparklers and wooden spoons and throw themselves into the centuries-old English tradition, the council said.

Stokes added: "The noise is to scare away the evil spirits and then the singing and drinking takes place.

"We're looking forward to seeing a big crowd."

The workshop is free to join, but the council advises that people should book in advance here.

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