THE Apple & Cider Fair at Eggesford Gardens is a real celebration of the great English apple and all its many uses.

National Apple Day is the October 21 and autumn is not only when apples are at their best but it’s also the perfect month for planting new trees as the soil is still warm and the trees can get established before winter arrives.

Concerns about what we eat and where it comes from seems to make the news every week. “More customers than ever are interested in growing their own fruit and veg” said Derrick Dyer, owner of Eggesford Garden Centre.

“Even with the uncertainty of the British weather and a couple of difficult seasons, lots of gardeners are choosing to turn part of the garden over to produce.

"This often includes planting a couple of fruit trees and smaller varieties for the patio seem particularly popular at the moment – picking fruit fresh from the tree is very rewarding.”

“The apple and cider fair is the most popular of our autumn events and a real favourite with customers new and old” said Derrick. All manner of goodies will be available to taste and buy including ciders, juices, ales, country wines, a wide selection of cheeses, pies, pickles, chutneys, jams and confectionery, all from local producers.

"There will also be a great choice of fruit trees on sale along with help and advice on choosing the right variety for your garden and practical tips on pruning etc.

As well as sampling delicious local produce before you buy you will be able to enjoy a glass of cider accompanied by a delicious hot roast pork roll or some tasty apple cake.

After a really good harvest last year, the 2014 apple crop looks a bit more patchy but still pretty good. If you have some apples why not bring them along for pressing and pick up some tips and tricks for making your own cider and juice.

This service has proved very popular so it’s best to call ahead and book a slot for your pressing.

Expert advice and assistance on planting new and rejuvenating existing trees will be available from the garden centre staff and well known local organisation, Orchards Live. As always there will be a fantastic display of old and unusual varieties of apple, along with help in choosing the best apple varieties for your garden, apple tasting and apples for sale.

Family entertainment includes the longest apple peel competition, free prize draw and willow basket weaving demonstrations. There is also a colouring competition for the kids and pottery painting for children of all ages.

This is a great day out with something for all the family so why not bob along to Eggesford Gardens on Sunday, October 12 (11am and 4pm) and join in the Apple Day celebrations. Entry is free and there is plenty of car parking.

Full details can be found on the Eggesford Gardens website: www.eggesfordgardens.com