CROWDS of people came to celebrate Apple Day in Chepstow today, where 65 varieties of apple were on display.

Funded by the council, apple day gives residents in the local community a chance to sample the local fruit and learn how to make cider. People can also go on a tour of the orchards in the area.

Organised by Ned Heywood, the event has now been running for five years. He said: “I set up the Apple Day to raise people’s awareness of apples in the area and how they can enjoy them.

“Chepstow has around 200 apple trees and was was famous for its white apple blossom in the spring because of the number of apples trees that grew here. People seem very enthusiastic to learn how to make cider and just keep on coming back.”

As part of the success of Apple Day, Chepstow Town Council loaned an apple press and scratter - a machine that grinds up the apples - to allow residents to bring their own apples to the event to make cider.

Pete Symonds attended the event he said: “I come here to teach people how to make cider. Everyone is interested in it, especially the young ones. I’ve been brewing and making cider for over 40 years and it’s a great trait to pass down the generations.”

Local businesses also got involved in the day by donating prizes for the raffle fund and holding competitions for the residents. Councillor Jane Robbins helped out at the event she said: “It’s been really successful, we are very happy.”