The asparagus auctions at The Fleece Inn at Bretforton have been an extremely valuable part of the heritage of the Vale of Evesham for many years. They are hugely popular and attract visitors and media from far and wide. Following discussions in late 2005/early 2006 between representatives from The Fleece Inn, Wychavon DC, Evesham Market Town Partnership and The British Asparagus Growers Association, it was decided to capitalise on this popularity and so the Vale Asparagus Festival was born.
It’s attracted a lot of publicity and plans for the 2008 festival are well underway.
This year the festival will take place between 23rd April and 21st June (St Georges Day and Midsummer Day) – the “traditional” growing period for Vale Asparagus.
The Festival will commence with “The Great English Asparagus Run” on St Georges Day. This will be a celebration of great English icons, with a Worcestershire slant.
A Morgan Car (hopefully being driven by a well known celebrity) will leave the Vale of Evesham (Bell Tower) carrying a Round of Vale Asparagus on a Royal Worcester platter to the sounds of a local band playing Elgars’ Land of Hope and Glory.
Upon arrival in London we have been invited by the Chairman and National Organiser of the “Enjoy England – Celebrate St Georges Day Campaign” to arrive at The House of Commons |
in time for the St Georges Day Loving Cup Ceremony that will take place. The Asparagus will then be presented to Andrew Rossindell MP, Chairman of the All-party St George’s Day Group at the House of Commons.
With the assistance of the British Asparagus Growers Association, asparagus from around the country, including the Vale of Evesham, will be served as part of the National St George’s Day Banquet at the England for Excellence Awards taking place at St George’s Hall, Liverpool during the evening of 23rd April.
Other events and activities are being planned to take place between 23rd April and 21st June these will mean that many more industry providers attractions and event organisers including the Morris, Medieval and Cider Festival taking place on 14th and 15th June 2008 can be included and benefit from this campaign. The key event will of course continue to be Festival Weekend at The Fleece Inn on 25th and 26th May.
A website www.Britishasparagusfestival.org is being set up and advertising space in the “Visit Britain/Enjoy England; Celebrate St George’s Day Campaign” has been purchased.
If you would like to get more involved in the festival please get in touch.
Angela Tidmarsh - 01386 565373 angela.tidmarsh@wychavon.gov.uk
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