Wye Valley asparagus, grown by the Chinn family in South Herefordshire, harvested its first commercia volumes of asparagus in early February.

The Chinn family has long been pioneers of the asparagus industry, developing sustainable growing methods and experimenting with varieties to extend the season. The “official start” of the asparagus season is usually viewed as 23rd April, St George’s day, but Wye Valley Produce has been putting asparagus on the shelves in early March for many years.

“This new production system is therefore nearly a month earlier than ‘our normal’, two and a half months earlier than ‘the normal’,” said Chris Chinn. “Warm and sunny weather helps as there is no heat added.”

At the moment it is only green asparagus, the purple variety will start in mid- March, followed by the white in late-March.

“We are absolutely delighted to be first to market with British asparagus once again, and for the continued support of our enthusiastic customers.”

Wye Valley asparagus has a long tradition of auctioning off the first boxes of the season, with full proceeds being donated to charity. This year they are proudly supporting the Oracle Cancer Trust in memory of Damian Fowler. Damian was a staunch supporter of Wye Valley Produce, and hugely popular in his role of managing director of Gilgrove – wholesalers at New Covent Garden Market. He fought a short battle with head and neck cancer, passing away in January.

Oracle Cancer Trust: www.justgiving.com

For more information:
Chris Chinn
Cobrey Farms
Tel: +44 1989 562 770
Email: chris@cobrey.co.uk
www.cobrey.co.uk