Ash cloud boosts Yorkshire asparagus growers

YORKSHIRE asparagus growers are enjoying a surge in demand thanks to the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud.

According to the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire (RFG) disruption caused to the import of fruit and vegetables has boosted home grown produce.

Research by the group and the Stockbridge Technology Centre also shows that Yorkshire grown asparagus has more antioxidants than imported varieties.

RFG chief executive Jonathan Knight said: “We hope our findings encourage people to buy Yorkshire produce, not only to boost the UK’s economy, but because of its fantastic taste and the bonus of its healthy properties.

“Asparagus is an important horticultural crop for many local growers and should be seen as a seasonal delicacy. No British asparagus is exported, and consumers should feel privileged that they get Britain’s entire harvest to themselves.”

The total wholesale value of the UK asparagus crop in 2009 was £36m. One of the key factors for this may be the rise in significance of regional foods, especially fruit and vegetables.

By 2013, the sale of locally sourced foods is estimated to grow to £6.5bn.

Ronda Morritt, owner of Low Moor Farm in Sand Hutton near York which supplies  top restaurants including the Star Inn at Harome, said demand was good despite the crop being a little late this year.

“As asparagus is a naturally-grown crop dependant on climate, the time at which it makes an appearance varies slightly each year,” she said.