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An apple a day keeps the doctor away… And with a bumper harvest this year, Dorset's apple growers should be healthier than ever!

Apple days across the county will give growers the chance to have their apples identified and pick up some tips on cider making.

Those new to the apple-growing world can also enjoy apple and cider-tasting, take part in orchard walks and pick their own produce to take home.

Apple Days across Dorset

Have your apples identified by an expert or enter the baking competition. Games, fun and information for young, old and those in between.

Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 October - Groves Nurseries, West Bay Road, Bridport

Growers from Elwell Fruit Farm will be holding the ever-popular annual apple tasting and will be available to advise on all aspects of fruit growing. Their locally grown apples and pears for sale, plus bottled apple and pear juice, and apple trees.

Open 10am to 5pm Saturday, 10.30am to 4.30pm Sunday. Contact Grove Nurseries on 01308 422654.

The farm has old orchards with varieties including Warrior which originated in Dorset. Apple Day will see illuminated Chinese fish sculptures hanging from the orchard trees, mulled cider and a bonfire.

There will also be apple tastings, a display of varieties, stalls, produce for sale, orchard walks with an expert, apple pies, apple pressing, honey for sale, apple games including the Longest Peel Competition.

The event runs from 3 to 7pm. Contact: Patricia Thompson on 01963 363045.

Thursday 25 October - Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorchester

Celebrate the glory of apples with tasting, fun activities and apple-based lunches!

Booking is essential. Open from 11am to 4pm. Contact the Kingcombe Centre on 01300 320684.

Saturday 27 October 2007 - Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester

Enjoy a farmers' market, art produced by local school children, competitions with prizes, and cider, fruit, cakes, jams, chutneys, cheeses and more for sale. The horticultural students have researched fruit and vegetable cultivation and their harvest will be for sale at the end of the day.

Open from 10am to 4pm. Admission costs £2 for adults, children go free. Contact Kingston Maurward on 01305 215000.