SIPPING cider among the apple blossom in the Herefordshire countryside might sound like a scene from the Darling Buds of May.

But cider tasting will be on the menu, along with apple juice and perry, at a blossomtime event in Putley Village Hall, near Ledbury, on Sunday, May 4, and Monday, May 5.

Visitors can also enjoy a walk through the orchards around Putley, with or without a guide, sample homemade food and visit cider makers at Much Marcle.

The village hall will be open for the Big Tasting from 2pm to 6pm on Sunday and from 12noon to 5pm on Monday.

Apple teas will be served and lunches will be available on Monday, when Leominster Morrismen will be there to entertain.

In the tiny parish of Aylton, three private gardens will be open, the church will be decorated with flowers, there will be an art exhibition and sculptor David Walker will be seen at work.

For details of the Blossomtime events call Jackie Denman on 01531 670544.