Organisers of a popular community festival have issued a last-ditch appeal for apples after a disastrous harvest left them so short of fruit that they considered cancelling.
Volunteers behind Trowbridge Apple Festival, which celebrates its 14th anniversary this year, have issued an urgent appeal for donations after the exceptionally hot and dry summer left many fruit trees bare.
The festival, which takes place in Trowbridge Town Park on October 10 from 11am, has been running since 2012 and attracts families from across the area.
Many gather to enjoy apple pressing, tasting sessions, traditional crafts, live music and free activities.
But organisers said a severe shortage of apples almost forced them to call the whole event off.
Town councillor Mel Jacob, who is helping to support the appeal, said: "Normally at this time of year volunteers are busy collecting apples from around the town from gardens and local orchards, but the exceptionally hot and dry summer means many trees are apple-less.
"There have been news reports of how cider makers are suffering this year with the same problem.
"We are looking for donations of apples. Even just four or five will help, as they can form a plate for the tasting table.
"But as many as possible so we can press apples and decorate the marquee as usual.
"We talked about not going ahead but decided we will keep going and have managed to get some apples, but nowhere near enough. We are hoping with the public's help we can find more."
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The festival is organised by a small group of volunteers who make up registered charity The BIG Community Grow.
Organisers are asking residents with surplus apples in their gardens to get in touch, adding that collections can be arranged.
As well as helping save this year's event, supporters are being encouraged to take part in the Great Apple Bake Off, an annual competition held during the festival.
Children and adults can enter by bringing along their own apple pies, cakes and other bakes for judging.
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The event remains free to attend and will feature live music, Morris dancing, games and activities for all ages.
Cllr Jacob said: "The Trowbridge Apple Festival has become an annual event in our town and it's a great way to bring our community together with lots of free and fun activities.
"Celebrating harvests has always been a tradition and it's vital we keep these parts of our culture alive."
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