THE START of the British asparagus season got off to a spectacular start this morning (April 23) at the historic Fleece Inn, Bretforton, with a lively display of Morris dancing, live music, flag-waving schoolchildren, and a classic car parade.
Under blue skies and bright sunshine, the annual St George’s Day launch saw the ancient courtyard filled with sound and colour, and the excited chatter of youngsters each wearing their green asparagus crowns.
As custom dictates, that jolly green giant Gus the Asparagus Man, along with St George himself, mingled with the crowds and posed for selfies in that 21st Century tradition.
Pupils from Bretforton Village School enjoy the occasion. Picture by Marcus Mingins 1726003MMR17
At 10am, the ‘hundred’, a selection of the season’s first spears, was ceremonially paraded out of the pub by Gus and a convoy of Morgan cars.
Its destination was the National Trust-owned Croome, with the asparagus welcomed in the historic walled garden.
Asum Gras Molly dancers. Picture by Marcus Mingins 1726003MMR14
This long-standing tradition of delivering the crop of finest spears near and far has previously seen Worcestershire asparagus delivered to Buckingham Palace, the European Parliament and the Japanese Embassy.
The act highlights the international reputation of Vale of Evesham asparagus.
Nigel Smith, landlord of the Fleece Inn and director of the British Asparagus Festival, said: “It’s gloriously bonkers, that’s the whole point. Where else would you see asparagus treated like royalty, driven off in a motorcade while Morris dancers lead the charge?
“The hundred and the asparagus festival launch celebrates the best of British, and signals the start of our gras menu.
“At its heart is a joyful celebration of the Vale of Evesham’s world-renowned asparagus and a powerful expression of England’s rural traditions.
“The day brings together food, farming and festivity in a way that is both timeless and part of our national story.”
Pebworth Morris Dancers. Picture by Marcus Mingins 1726003MMR18
The launch forms part of a wider programme running until June 21, featuring asparagus-themed menus across the Vale and the historic Bretforton Silver Band asparagus auction on May 24.
