Annual event celebrating asparagus set to take place in Worcestershire
The launch of the British Asparagus Festival is set to take place at The Fleece Inn in Bretforton today (23 April)
An event in Worcestershire today (23 April) is set to mark the start of two months worth of celebrations all dedicated to asparagus.
The launch of the annual British Asparagus Festival is taking place on St George's Day at The Fleece Inn in Bretforton to signify the official beginning of the green speared vegetable's season which runs into June.
It also highlights its importance, with the Vale of Evesham asparagus being a protected food name with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) for asparagus produced from this specific area.
Chairman of the festival Nigel Smith, who is also the licensee of the pub, said it is always a great occasion and has vowed to keep it going for as long as he can.
"It's amazing that it's come around yet again so quickly," he said.
"We're really excited that the trees are blossoming but more importantly the asparagus is growing.
Two weeks ago there was very little asparagus about but it's certainly in full evidence now, we've seen some beautiful asparagus arriving for us for our chefs to cook and we're looking forward to the season going forward."
At each event the first 100 round of gras, the asparagus, are taken annually on a journey to a notable destination, with this year's one being the National Trust's estate in Croome.
Last year it travelled to the Japanese Embassy in London to celebrate Vale of Evesham Asparagus gaining Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status in Japan, while other destinations have included Buckingham Palace.
Morris dancers, classic cars, mascots Gus the Asparagus Man and St George are also regulars at the launch.