AN ancient ceremony that traces its roots back over 700 years takes place in Ashburton this weekend.

The town ’s Ale Tasting and Bread Weighing Ceremony commences at 2pm from St Lawrence Chapel tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon.

Bread and ale were such important staples of the medieval diet that their quality and price were a significant concern to the authorities. 

This led to the first law in British history to regulate the production and sale of food – the Assize of Bread and Ale – and these traditions are still followed in the town.

The event is organised by the Ashburton Courts Leet and Baron, who as well as appointing a Portreeve and Master Bailiff, also  still appoint Ale Tasters and Bread Weighers although their role is now purely ceremonial.

The event is organised by the Ashburton Courts Leet and Baron, who as well as appointing a Portreeve and Master Bailiff, also  still appoint Ale Tasters and Bread Weighers although their role is now purely ceremonial.

Saturday’s procession will feature participants attired in medieval garb making their its way around the town calling at both hostelries and bakers to ensure that both good ale and bread was sold.