MEMBERS of a Clapham co-operative are hoping for a pip roaring success with their National Apple Day celebrations.

Although Apple Day itself was fixed on calendars for yesterday, Thursday, October 21, in the weeks ahead, hundreds of apple-related events are being held across the entire country in celebration.

Fans of the country fruit living locally will not miss out on the fun and will have the opportunity to join in the fun at events throughout the area.

Apple Day was first organised by the Common Ground charity in 1990 in order to highlight the rapid loss of orchards throughout Britain, as well as the loss of regional apple heritage.

The day also exists to create a greater understanding and appreciation of apples and orchards and their place in our landscape. The Clapham agricultural co-operative, Growing Gracefully, will be hosting its own event at Clapham Nursery tomorrow, Saturday, October 23, and everyone is invited to attend.

Co-operative member Neil Marshall told how the day, in honour of organic varieties of the fruit, would include apple sampling and games for children. There would also be the opportunity to take along any apple-inspired dishes to share.

"We did a similar event two years ago and this year we thought we would repeat it," said Mr Marshall.

"Apples are something that grow very well in this country where people spend most of their time eating imported fruits. It is our heritage and we should celebrate it."

l Clapham Nursery will be hosting Apple Day celebrations tomorrow, Saturday, Oct 23. Take along your favourite apple dish to share at 2pm. Contact 015242 51723.

l Grange Community Orchard at Yewbarrow Lodge, Grange, will be hosting a guided walk, apple tasting and advice session from 2pm to 4pm tomorrow, Saturday, Oct 23. Contact Mrs Shirley Leaver on 015395-34807.

l Howe Ridding Nature reserve, Witherslack, near Grange. Celebrate Apple day with Cumbria Wildlife Trust at the Nature Reserve on Sunday, Oct 24. The reserve contains the remains of an apple and damson orchard. Contact 01539-816300.