Wassail Tales: The tradition of the apple tree

The ancient tradition of apple wassailing, in which trees are protected from evil spirits to ensure a plentiful crop, has seen a resurgence in recent years.

The custom, which dates back to pagan times, involves people pouring cider over tree roots, singing songs, making loud noises and making a toast.

Wassailing is still practised across the UK but is most prevalent in the West Country - such as in Pilton and Mudgley in Somerset, as this film shows.

Video produced by Gwendolen von Einsiedel and Phil Clarke Hill.