EVENTS are being held this autumn by the National Trust to raise awareness of the importance of traditional orchards and apple varieties.
Lydford Gorge, the Dartmoor Parke Estate and Cotehele House in East Cornwall will be involved in 'Apple Day' celebrations.
Trust staff will be demonstrating the delights of growing and tasting traditional apples, there will be guided orchard walks, advice on fruit tree growing, cider and apple juice sampling and displays of rare and unusual apple varieties. Tearooms and restaurants will be serving autumnal fruit dishes.
Conservation advisor for the trust Janet Lister said: 'In recent years the number of orchards in Britain has declined dramatically.
'The trust is working to revive the fortunes of orchards, which not only provide food for the table but also good quality habitats for wildlife.
'Much of our work involves local communities and these events are a great opportunity for even more people to learn about the humble apple and enjoy themselves at the same time.'
At Cotehele there will be an apple weekend on September 27/28 from 11am to 4pm with walks, talks and tastings, displays and information.
On October 5 at Lydford Gorge there will be apples and games in the orchard, apple dishes in the tea-room and juice tasting in the shop from noon.
At the Parke Estate on October 18 from 11am to 4pm there will be apple games and activities in the orchard and a chance to make apple juice from your apples.
Booking is essential on 01626 834748.