Planting for cider making

23 July 2010

A FARM attraction says it hopes to keep up with the country's growing demand for cider by planting a new orchard.

Fifteen acres of land have been planted with traditional cider varieties at Puxton Park, on the outskirts of Weston.

Bosses say the new attraction will eventually lead to a cider-making feature at the site and a new section for activities.

Managing director Alastair Mead said: "It was part of the site which we acquired when we built the centre, though the trees were well past their best.

"Part of our plan here is to grow fruit and vegetables to supply our shop and restaurant, but instead of ploughing up the land we decided to regenerate the orchard so that eventually we shall be able to produce our own cider."

The area has been replanted with traditional varieties such as Kingston Black and Morgan Sweet.

Mr Mead added: "This is a great cider-producing area and we get a lot of inquiries from visitors about how and where it is made.

"Once the trees start cropping in a few years we are planning to have the apples pressed and fermented for us by a local cider maker, but then we are planning to install our own press so that visitors can see the whole process from start to finish.