In and around Lickey!
Lickey Wassail 17 Jan ’26 (93)
Described as “the best yet”, the Lickey Hills were treated to a right racket in mid-January.
The usual suspects held their annual Wassail and Mummers Play in the Country Park, with Head Ranger Steve Hinton having welcomed one and all, the event kicked off with the Black Adder Morris Dancers who invited the public to join in at the Visitors Centre.
There followed the Mummers Play with a cast including the good, the bad and the ugly. Representing the downtrodden was the Bin Man, the instigator of all his/her woes Baroness Hardup, mix in the sublime negotiator President Donald Trump and some Smelly Peasants and you have a tale for the ages. Even Ozzy Osbourne made a spirited appearance to the absolute delight on the audience.
With St George appearing with his trusty steed, mayhem ensued fighting the evil pair of the Baroness and Trump with light sabres, no less! Long story short, the Good Doctor saved the day as the wrongdoers were carried off by the devils associate Harry Canab and his fiery bull.
Once two unexpectant members of the public were crowned King Bean and Queen Pea, everyone processed to the Community Orchard sparkling with fairy lights. Having been invited in through a willow arch adorned with lights, they marched around making as much noise as possible to scare away evil spirits thus ensuring a bountiful harvest.
Singing, merriment and warm apple drinks were enjoyed before hanging sodden toast on the fruit tree branches.
Organiser Carole Burden said that “we couldn’t be more pleased with the turnout. Over 300 people of all ages came along and participated”. Carole was supported by a great team of volunteers and is already looking forward to next year’s event. No, she really is…