Corsham Can Get 'Stirred Up' for Christmas at Lacock Abbey

It's not often the National Trust offers people the chance to come and do a bit of stirring, but that's the idea at Lacock Abbey's (near Corsham and Chippenham) Stir up Sunday event on Sunday 20th November.

This is the traditional day for people to make and stir their Christmas puddings. (Although the true source of the name comes from the opening line of the Church Collect for that Sunday 'Stir up, we beseech thee, O Lord, the wills of thy faithful people').

A Christmas pudding mix will be on hand to be stirred, not forgetting the traditional wish to be made while doing so. Visitors can also take the 'Christmas pud challenge' by tasting and judging a couple of puddings, as well as the 'guess the Christmas pudding ingredient test'.

Fascinating facts about the origin of the pudding and about advent customs from this country and around the world will be on display. One intriguing activity from America is called the 'Jesse Tree', and one of these will be on show for people to interact with.

A variety of activities will get the whole family joining in. There will be some 'make and take' advent and Christmas pudding crafts for children, plus a chance to go on a Christmas pudding treasure hunt exploring the ingredients and lucky charms connected with this beloved desert.

Competitive dads can try their luck with the 'Shot pud' and nimble fingered mums can take part in 'Who can wrap the present the quickest'.

The event takes place at Lacock Abbey near Corsham and Chippenham from 11am to 3pm. Normal admission applies, NT members and under fives free. More information is available from 01249 730727 or www.nationaltrust.org.uk