AN ancient mid-winter custom is being celebrated once again to toast in the new year in Knutsford.

The third annual wassail will be held at Crosstown Community Orchard at 4pm on Saturday, January 13.

Musicians and dancers will celebrate wassail, derived from the old Norse ‘waes hail’ meaning ‘good health’.

READ > New selection process unveiled to choose Knutsford Royal May Queen

Knutsford Guardian: Two morris sides performed a selection of traditional dances at last year's celebrationTwo morris sides performed a selection of traditional dances at last year's celebration (Image: Thomas Elton)

The ceremony is traditionally performed in orchards to scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest for the year ahead.

Crosstown Community Orchard on Mobberley Road is Knutsford’s first community orchard.

Knutsford Guardian: Musicians entertaining the crowd at last year's wassailMusicians entertaining the crowd at last year's wassail (Image: Thomas Elton)

It is a charity run by a group of trustees.

The orchard holds a monthly word day to maintain the space and welcomes new volunteers.

For more details visit crosstowncommunityorchard.org.uk