According to the Asparagus Growers’ Association in Louth, Lincs, the bulk of the British main crop is still expected to appear around the traditional start date of 1^st May.

The arrival of the asparagus season traditionally heralds the start of summer cooking. With the new season’s lamb available, trout in season and peas and broad beans on their way in June, it’s a special time of year for British, seasonal ingredients.

Andy Allen, a Norfolk Asparagus Grower and Vice Chairman of the Asparagus Grower’s Association is looking forward to a traditional start to the season, "I can set my watch by my asparagus crop. Every year it appears on 1^st May and I don’t expect this year to be any different."

The British asparagus crop is regularly described as the ‘best in the world’. While the cool British climate ensures optimum slow-growing conditions to achieve the perfect-tasting spear, the fact that it is grown here means that it can be quickly transported from field to plate, ensuring that consumers can enjoy it at its freshest.

"There’s no doubt that in the case of asparagus, British really is best," explains Victor Aveling, chairman of the Asparagus Growers Association.

For more information on the AGA, visit their website at www.british-asparagus.co.uk