THE apple will be celebrated in Much Marcle this weekend with a host of venues open for The Big Apple.

Varieties Little Verzons, Dragon Orchards and Reddingends will be on sale in Pixley, Putley and Much Marcle.

A talk on the fruit's geographical origins will be given by Dr Barrie Juniper, of Oxford University, entitled Tracing the Origins of the Apple - from Tien Shan to Much Marcle at Hellen's, Much Marcle. Starting at 5.15pm on the Sunday, it will cost £4 to get in.

Ciderlore, an earthier version of its history, is given by Fiona Mac at Lyne Down at 3pm tomorrow (Saturday).

Guided tours of St Bartholomew's Church take place all weekend, and Leominster Morris Men will be dancing at the Royal Oak at 12.30pm and Lyne Down at 1.30pm on the Sunday.

Details of events are posted behind the Royal Oak in Much Marcle or ring 01531 670544.