RESIDENTS can have their apple crop turned into apple juice at Bedford Square, Tavistock tomorrow (Friday) between 10am and 2pm, thanks to the members of the Tavy and Tamar Apple Group who, for the second year, will be providing this service.

Though they will be using modern machinery, the process goes back hundreds of years, when most farms in Devon had their cider press where layers of apples and straw were made into a 'cheese'. This is replicated in a modern process, where the apples are turned into a mushy pulp and then wrapped in muslin and layered between wooden racks. The juice is then squeezed out by the hydraulic press.

Any variety of apples can be brought, whether the colourful Pig's Snout or the world-famous Bramley, but they should be clean, in reasonable condition and, if windfalls, only from ground that has not been grazed for the previous three months.

The apple juice can be frozen, pasteurised or turned into cider or other liquids.

Apple owners must bring containers for the 'Golden Liquid' - soft drink plastic bottles are ideal but not milk bottles. A small charge will be made to cover the maintenance of the machinery.

This public event is one of a series of talks and training courses held during the year by Tavy and Tamar Apple Group. Further details can be seen on their website http://www.tavyapples.org.uk">www.tavyapples.org.uk