Despite the blanket of rain that is covering the UK at the moment, the warmer than normal temperatures for this month have helped with the start of the growing season. We’re seeing more lines of local produce coming through in small quantities. Cavolo Nero from Libby Flintoff has helped fill that leafy brassica gap that we have at this time of year. Her tunnel grown courgettes are also just ready for cutting over in Preston. We’ve taken our first delivery of them this week. Also, coming from Lancashire are mini cucumbers from Lyncroft Farm. We’re looking forward to their first aubergines arriving for the weekend.
We’re hearing a lot of questions on the shop floor for asparagus. The season started late and yields have been low from our usual suppliers but we’ll have bunches arriving from Stenigot Farm and Vine House Farm in Lincolnshire just in time for the weekend.
New potatoes have also been a popular request. Whilst we’re unlikely to see the first UK new season spuds until June, we’re still managing to source a range of potatoes from Yorkshire and Scotland to see us through.
Warmer weather in Europe is ensuring our fruit section is looking bright and abundant. The early stone fruits are just starting to deliver in flavour too. Nectarines, apricots and cherries from Spain and France are becoming more plentiful and tasting sweet.
