Opening Ceremony

The Great English Asparagus Run

St George's Day dawned in style in Worcestershire's Vale of Evesham as the first event of The British Asparagus Festival got underway and left the Bell Tower in the towns' Abbey Park.

The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Mr Michael Brinton was travelling in a chauffeur driven Morgan Roadster (generously loaned by Morgan Cars Ltd) carrying a Evesham design Royal Worcester plate (contributed by Royal Worcester) upon which a "Round" of freshly cut asparagus kindly donated by Birlingham Nurseries, nr Pershore and authentically "tied" by local asparagus guru Mr Billy Byrd. 

These great Worcestershire icons drew away from the Vale of Evesham to the melodious tones of Elgars' "Land of Hope and Glory"(played by the Avonbank Band) and were driven to a Reception at the House of Commons held to commemorate the"Enjoy England - Celebrate St George's Day Campaign"

Upon its arrival in London, the presentation of the "Round" of asparagus was made by Councillor Don Lawley (Chairman of Wychavon District Council) to Andrew Rossindell, MP, chairman of the All party St George's Day Group at the the Loving Cup ceremony, held in the Jubilee Room at Westminster in the presence of Miss England

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Back in Evesham “Gus” the Asparagus Man made his World debut, and with the Pebworth Morris Men, Bruno Gallone, St George and local Asparamancer Jemima Packington also in attendance at this most quintessentially English spot of Worcestershire ….. this was definitely an unmissable event, and the most memorable way for the British Asparagus Festival in the Vale of Evesham to start.

Many other asparagus related events and activities will take place throughout the Festival period (See Programme)