“A GREAT night,” was how party-goers described the recent launch party for Uptonogood cider, held in the Village Hall. Around 200 attended the fixture which saw the village’s own brand cider go on sale for the first time. At various times during the evening the event’s popularity was demonstrated by a queue to enter, cider enthusiasts four deep at the makeshift bar and almost unending demand for the hog roast and Upton Nibbles’ locally produced food. The hall was also packed with people dancing to headline act the Somerset Paddies, who played plenty of foot-tapping Somerset/Irish music, including the Wurzles I’ve got a brand new combine harvesterwhich went down a storm with the audience. 

The cider, which was the brainchild of Upton Noble resident John White of Millwhites Cider and which was produced from apples donated from several villagers, received numerous plaudits. “Delicious and I don’t even drink cider,” said Lisa Butler. “I will be from now on.” Kav Javvi, landlord of Batcombe’s Three Horseshoes pub, said: “Fantastic. The cider will take over the world. Can you guess I enjoyed it.” Sam Moody commented: “What a fantastic evening. Thank you Upton Noble. Can’t wait for the Beer & Cider Festival in September.” 

Dan Hurring, chairman of the organising committee, termed the fixture a “hugely successful event” and a great precursor to the Beer & Cider Festival. “A huge thanks to all who came and made Uptonogood such great fun — villagers, friends, family and those from the wider area. We’re delighted that over 200 people showed up to support the launch of our new village cider and party the night away. A big personal thanks also to all those involved, including the many people who helped put it together on the day and take it back down again in the rain afterwards,” said Dan. 

Upton Noble’s Beer & Cider Festival will be held on 16-17 September 2016.