Cider country toasts the best blossom in a decade

Last year’s cold and wet weather devastated crops and crippled the harvest.

This year’s blossom has arrived around two weeks late – but is bigger and stronger than cider chiefs could have hoped for.

“After last year’s disappointment, it is extremely encouraging to see such a strong blossom,” said Paul Bartlett, chairman of the National Association of Cider Makers. “Although it came late, it could be promising news as there is now less chance of a frost ruining crops.

“The region’s producers are breathing a big sigh of relief.”

Somerset cider maker Neil McDonald said: “This is by far the best blossom I have seen in at least 10 years. Last year was worrying – it started with a poor blossom and got worse. Around 30 per cent of crop was destroyed.”

Cider making plays a crucial role in the economy of the South West, where many of the UK’s 480 producers are based.