VILLAGERS gathered in Pilton at the weekend to encourage a bumper apple crop.

The annual Wassail took place on Saturday (January 18) at the historic Tithe Barn.

Crowds gathered to toast the new season and to carry out the traditional ceremony in a bid to wake up the trees and encourage a productive year.

The Pilton Players performed a special St George and The Dragon play as villagers - including Michael Eavis - looked on, before choosing a Wassail Queen.

The celebration then moved to the orchard itself, with the queen carrying out ceremonial duties and the gathered crowd making as much noise as possible to wake the trees.

Here are some pictures from the event...

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PERFORMANCE: The Pilton Players staged a special production. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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GATHERING: The 14th Century Tithe Barn was the venue in Pilton. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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CEREMONY: The Wassail Queen encouraged the trees to bring a good crop for the year. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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PERFORMANCE: The Pilton Players staged a special production. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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SETTING: The orchard has a stunning view of the Vale of Avalon. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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ATMOSPHERE: The barn was warmed by celebratory spirits - and warm fires. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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SIGN OF THE TIMES: Outside the event. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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ORCHARD: Before the ceremony. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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FUN TIMES: One youngster making the most of the conditions. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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PERFORMANCE: The Pilton Players staged a special production. PICTURES: Paul Jones

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LEADER: During the ceremony. PICTURES: Paul Jones