16th SEPTEMBER 2009 | FROM ORCHARDS TO BOTTLING, FROM FACE PAINTING TO PICNICS

Well over 1500 people once again visited Myrtle Farm for Thatchers Cider Family Open Day. With tastings and tours, face painting and the Morris Men, as well as a delicious barbecue, there was something to appeal to all ages. 

For the first time, visitors were able to enjoy guided tours of the orchards, led by Chairman John Thatcher. The children especially were excited by the chance to ride on a special passenger trailer, towed by one of the farm’s tractors, taking them right up into the orchards.
  
During tours of the cider mill and press, guided by members of Thatchers staff, visitors could see where the apples arrive, and follow the process of cider making from beginning to end. Of course, for the adults, the tasting tent was as popular as ever, as was the Cider Shop with people wanting to take home the new ciders they had tasted.

We also had another first - we were delighted to welcome our local radio station, Star 107.7 FM along to our open day. Their presenters Roger and Laura broadcast live during the event, and were able to tell their listeners all about life here at Thatchers.

Martin Thatcher said, “Once again we had a fantastic family atmosphere throughout the day. Everyone really enjoyed learning more about how cider is made; our new orchard tours were a particular success, and we were pleased that many people were just happy to sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the orchards.

“We’d like to thank everyone who joined us and helped us make the day such an enjoyable one.”

Our competition winners were:

Dr Bennett from Honiton
Magda Lowson from Hengrove
Anne Mean from Blagdon

Isaac Holley from Weston Super Mare
Lucy John from Elborough
E Weaver from Banwell

Congratulations to you all.

We hope you enjoy just some of the photographs taken on the day. Click here to view.