AN APPLE-THROWING contest, involving competitors hurling windfalls across a river, is to form part of an autumn celebration at an historic home.

Newby Hall’s annual apple day takes place on Sunday (September 28).

For the first time ever, visitors will be offered tours of Newby’s historic orchards, situated in the historic home near Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire. More than 50 different varieties are grown, many of them rare.

There will also be demonstrations of apple pressing and tastings, a fruit display and advice from the Northern Fruit Group, along with family trails in the gardens, face-painting and other apple craft activities.

The highlight of the day will be Newby’s annual apple-throwing championship.

Competitors of all ages are invited to throw Newby’s windfalls all the way across the River Ure – a distance that varies each year – with a grand final for the most impressive throwers.

Activities start at noon, with apple-throwing commencing at 2pm.