A CIDER farm near Wincanton is launching a new “celebration of fruit trees, flowers, food and drink” this weekend.

Dowding’s, at Shepton Montague, will host the first of its Orchard Blossom Days weekend events on Saturday and Sunday, April 27 and 28.

Alongside the firm’s award-winning ciders will be hot food from Bruecurries – including an apple curry – and other attractions.

“If the weather allows, our friends from the Pitcombe Rock Falconry will be joining us with some birds of prey,” an organiser said.

“Dowding’s organic orchards rely on owls for pest control, which the Pitcombe Rock Falconry will talk about, alongside their work in rescue and rehabilitation.”

Meanwhile, ARTinthe will introducing outdoor art classes, inspired by nature, for all ages and abilities.

Entry costs £1 per adult, a donation to the Pitcombe Rock Falconry. For more information, log on to dowdings.co.uk.