RARE apple trees are being preserved with the revival of the East Yorkshire tradition of planting orchards.

Apple enthusiasts joined forces to create the Millennium Orchard at Beverley Parks Nature Reserve in Long Lane.

Now people are being invited to enjoy the fruits of their labours at Apple Fest to celebrate National Apple Day in the orchard on Sunday.

More than 40 varieties of apple are growing on more than 100 trees in East Riding Council's 50-acre countryside attraction.

Unusual East Yorkshire varieties include the Hornsea Herring and Fillingham Pippin, which was found only in the Swanland area.

The council's countryside access officers and members of the East Yorkshire Federation of Women's Institutes (WI) joined forces to develop the orchard as a millennium project.

Chris Toohie, countryside access officer, said: "It has gone really well and the orchard is now an established part of the nature reserve.

"Until recently, many old orchards and apple trees were lost through neglect and alternative uses of land.

"I'm pleased to say there is now much greater awareness of preserving these old varieties."

The Millennium Orchard is playing an important role in the revival and has one of the largest new collections of apple varieties in the north of England.

Mr Toohie said: "The Apple Fest at Beverley Parks is a wonderful opportunity to find out about preserving apples, traditional landscapes and crafts.

"With a range of activities for all the family set in one of East Riding's most fascinating nature reserves, this really will be a great way to spend a Sunday."

Funding for the event has been provided by the East Yorkshire Federation of Women's Institutes, Local Heritage Initiative and East Riding Council.

Among the activities are falconry displays, chainsaw carving, environmental art, face painting, charcoal burning and marquees packed with countryside activities and information.

WI members have been busy cooking up tasty apple dishes for visitors to enjoy, while the Northern Fruit Group will be on hand to identify apple varieties people bring along.

Beverley WI member Elaine Dyson, who is also on the Millennium Orchard group, said a lot of the varieties were endangered and it was important to keep them going.

"The WI has always done things for the community, especially when it comes to countryside matters like this," she said.

Apple Fest takes place on Sunday from 11am to 3pm.