WITH JUST two months to go before the start of another great British asparagus season, “gras” devotees in the Vale of Evesham are putting out a call to local businesses and individuals to join the annual celebrations promoting the delicious delicacy locally, nationally and internationally.

Many local businesses have already enjoyed high profile publicity due to their involvement with the British Asparagus Festival, which starts on St George’s Day – April 23 – each year, and the Vale’s inseparable connection with the finest asparagus available.

This year festival organisers and asparagus promoters are inviting business people and individuals to attend a free business breakfast event at Evesham Rowing Club on Friday March 10 from 7.45am to 9.30am.

They will be able to find out about the recently announced Vale of Evesham Asparagus EU protected status and how it can help their business, marketing Vale of Evesham Asparagus to their customers and what they can learn from other businesses involved in the Evesham asparagus phenomenon.

Wychavon Tourism Officer Angela Tidmarsh said: “We have been celebrating and promoting our famous asparagus in a unique way for many years. We are very proud that so much of this marketing has met with outstanding success resulting in national and international media interest.”

She added that the news about EU Protected status would give local businesses further opportunities to benefit from being associated with Vale of Evesham asparagus.

Director and chair of the Asparagus Festival Community Interest Company Nigel Smith said: “We are sure this newly granted accolade will give a variety of wonderful opportunities for business growth throughout the Vale and to neighbouring areas of Worcestershire and beyond.

“Whether you are in horticulture, packaging and logistics, retail, hospitality or tourism, this could give you or your members a great opportunity for growth and the business breakfast is a chance to find out more.”

The business breakfast event will include a presentation, open forum, Q&A, breakfast and networking.

Anyone interested in attending should send an e-mail to info@britishasparagusfestival.co.uk no later than Friday March 3.