Sutton Cider.mp4

This video shows Neil Sutton demonstrating the art of traditional cider making at Little Stockings in the Shadow of Clee Hill, Shropshire. Little Stockings has been the home of cider making for generations and Neil is continuing the family tradition using the same equipment as his father and grandfather. The press is a mobile press originally towed from farm to farm making cider on site. Cider was used by the farms to part pay their workers. Today local farmers bring their apples to Neil who transforms them into the golden elixir at Little Stockings. The video was made on a cold and misty November day, typical cider making weather according to Neil. Apples fall naturally in late October and November and are then at their juciest, making the best cider. The rustic idyl of cider making on a sunny autumn day with golden leaved trees in the background is seldom true with more normal conditions being rain, fog or snow. Neil should know the Stocking press is still outside and close to the original spring water source. (The video was made as part of the Titterstone Clee Heritage Trust traditional rural crafts programme).