TOMATO lovers across Worcestershire are being encouraged to enjoy the vegetable and buy British by an Evesham grower.
Following tomato shortages at the start of the year, the British Tomato Growers’ Association is thrilled British tomatoes are now back on supermarket shelves.
The shortages were caused by bad weather in Europe and Africa which impacted supplies.
Local growers, R & L Holt Ltd, who run multiple sites in the Vale of Evesham, are celebrating British Tomato Fortnight, which runs until Sunday (June 11) and are encouraging people in Worcestershire to make the most of the British tomato season.
Roly Holt, head grower at R & L Holt, where they have focused on tomato production for more than 40 years said: “Buying seasonal fruit and vegetables is the best way to get freshest and tastiest produce.’’
“A lot of love and hard work goes into growing our delicious British tomatoes in the Vale. We’re extremely excited the season is underway and British Tomato Fortnight is an excellent way to celebrate this.”
“We’re encouraging everyone to check labels in supermarkets to ensure they’re buying British where possible, as its better for the local economy and means food miles are significantly reduced.
“Our toms are also kept on the vine longer than imported varieties which means they absorb as much flavour as possible before reaching your plate.”
Dr Phil Morley, technical executive officer at the British Tomato Growers’ Association said: “The past few years have been especially challenging for our growers with sky-rocketing energy and input prices, labour shortages and supply issues.
“Around a fifth of the total toms we consume are grown here in the UK so it’s vital we make the most of the season.
“And we know demand is there, Google searches for British tomatoes shot up by 293 per cent following the shortages at the start of this year.
“At a time where we’re trying to make our money and time go further, we’ve created a range of delicious, healthy ‘Toms in Ten’ recipes which are quick and inexpensive to make, working with well-known foodies and authors Joe Woodhouse and Rukmini Iyer.
Visit the British Tomato Growers’ Association website at www.britishtomatoes.co.uk/recipes for the ‘Toms in Ten’ recipes.
