From clog and morris dancing to wassailing, visitors celebrate old fashioned traditions at Staffordshire site

Around 150 people descended on the Wolseley Centre near Rugeley to take part in the annual Wassailing Ceremony staged by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

Wassailing is an ancient custom in which the evil spirits are driven out of trees and good spirits are encouraged to produce a bumper crop for the coming year.

As well as performances from Beggars Oak Clog Dancers and Lichfield Morris Men on Sunday, revellers were also invited to take part in the customs, including singing and dancing around the trees.

Wildlife spokesman James Wood said the event had been a massive success.

He said: "We were delighted with the turnout, with around 150 joining us and helping to one our country's ancient customs alive.

"Both Beggars Oak Clog Dancers and Lichfield Morris Men put on a fantastic performance. "This was just the first of a number of exciting wild events at the Wolseley Centre over the coming months."

During a traditional wassailing ceremony, a master of ceremonies known as 'The Butler' paints his face in disguise and leads the festivities.

Mulled apple juice was also served up to visitors at the event.

The Wolseley Centre is located on the A51 between Stafford and Rugeley.

Upcoming events in the next few weeks include a watercolour course on Thursday (29) from 7-9pm with artist Sue Chatterton.

And then on February1, youngsters can enjoy a Wildlife Stories session from 2-4pm.

Budding authors can get expert tips on how to write their own wildlife stories. It's open to young people aged three and nine.

The Wolseley Centre enjoyed its busiest year on record in 2014 when bumper crowds headed to the centre.

A total of 41,500 visitors went through the doors - up massively on the previous record of 28,500.

Bosses say the surge was down to improved facilities at the site.

The attraction, which is located on the A51 between Rugeley and Stafford, opened in 2003.

Attractions at the site also include a gift shop and 26-acres of picturesque grounds featuring wildlife-friendly display gardens, sensory garden, three lakes and a play trail for youngsters.