A CELEBRATION of Evesham’s most famous produce is on the horizon as The British Asparagus Festival rolls into town.
The festival is an annual celebration of the harvest of the nation’s favourite spring green which kicks off in Evesham’s neighbouring villages of Bretforton and Broadway.
Starting on St George’s Day (April 23) from 9.30am, the event marks the start of a month celebration dedicated to all things asparagus, and is filled with antics, music, Morris dancing, Gus the Asparagus Man and St George himself.
On Tuesday, April 23 the festivities begin with a gathering of classic cars including Morgans at the Fleece Inn, Bretforton ahead of the steam train journey.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s (GWSR) Asparagus Express departs Broadway at 11.35am bound for Cheltenham Racecourse, before arriving back in Broadway at 13.56pm following a 12.55pm departure.
Catherine Johnson, marketing manager of the GWSR commented: “The GWSR is thrilled to be involved in this fantastic event, celebrating the beautiful asparagus our region grows.
“In the past, asparagus was transported to market over our railway from the Vale of Evesham so we are turning the clock back.”
Over the years The British Asparagus Festival team has been to Buckingham Palace, Worcester Cathedral, the European Parliament in Brussels, Royal Hospital Chelsea and many more, presenting the harvest to worthwhile causes.
For 2024 the fresh asparagus will be donated to the Cheltenham-based charity National Star, where students will whip up our prized asparagus into delicious dishes to be served at the StarBistro.
National Star Chief Executive Lynette Barrett said: “Preparing young people with disabilities for adulthood is what National Star is all about.
“An important part of that preparation is learning about healthy eating, understanding the importance of local seasonal food and of course how to prepare balanced and tasty meals.”
Visit www.gwsr.com and http://www.britishasparagusfestival.co.uk/ for more information.
The British Asparagus Festival in 2019. Photos by Stuart Purfield and Pamela Harradines. s
