A FARM near Malvern will be opening its gates to allow members of the public to see how hops and apples are grown and harvested.

The open day at Stocks Farm, Suckley, follows the great success of last year’s event, which attracted scores of interested visitors despite less-than-perfect weather.

Hops and apples are part of local history, and all are welcome to see how they are harvested for brewers, cider makers and supermarkets across the UK and the world.

Alison Capper of the farm said: "Whether you live locally, are a brewing enthusiast or you just want an interesting afternoon out, you are more than welcome to come along to see what happens on the other side of the farm gate. The open day will be in the middle of the hop harvest, and the apple harvest may well have started too.

"Everything will be explained from the growing systems and structures in the orchards and hop yards, to pest and disease management, through to the economics of modern fruit and hop farming."

The open day on Saturday, September 10, starts at 2pm with a walk through the apple orchards and the hop yards while the harvest is in progress.

Visitors will be able to see the Bruff hop-picking machine in action and the working hop kilns, followed by a walk back to the farm for tea and cakes in the garden.

Entry will be by donation, with proceeds going to the Fledglings Nursery at Suckley.