Drenched rowan legends

On the Wroxham riverbank scarlet rowan berries glisten with rain drops. 

The mystical native tree was revered by Vikings and Celts alike in the last millenia ~ and until the present day. A rowan tree was a central component of the extraordinary 1973 film The Wicker Man, set on the mysterious and beautiful Summerisle. The island was situated off the west coast of Scotland; virtually isolated from the hum drum post~modern world and host to a population of latter day pagans. 

Rowans are said to ward off evil. Its hard and resilient timber is used to make useful objects like tool handles and spinning wheels. Dyes were made from the rich bark and berries for ritualistic purposes. The berries can even be made into alcoholic drinks.

Chris