UK: Carrot variety day the most successful to date
The variety trials were run by NIAB, and with 68 different varieties on display there was a great mixture of types and plant densities. In addition, Syngenta UK Ltd had demonstration plots of 4 new seed treatments and there were several machinery demonstrations.
Next to knowledge sharing and demonstrations of the latest industry developments, the event featured a voting contest for the “best tasting carrot.” Where visitors could choose from a total of six varieties from various carrot seed companies. The winner, announced on the day, was Clause’s variety Poseidon, followed closely by Nunhems variety Romance in 2nd place and Hazera’s variety Octavo in 3rd place.
There was also an award for the most innovative product or service. The competition was fierce with 7 entrants but the overall winner, voted following the event by the BCGA R & D Committee, was Tong Peal Engineering’s product the VISAR Sortop, the most advanced carrot sorter on the UK market.
Speaking at the event Rodger Hobson, BCGA Chairman, said “This event has been our best yet with record numbers in terms of varieties on show and people in attendance. It is a credit to John Birkenshaw, ADAS and NIAB for their hard work and helping to make it such a great success.”
Sadly following the event John Birkenshaw passed away after battling cancer for some time. He will be greatly missed by the industry after nearly 30 years as the BCGA Company Secretary.
For more information:
Wendy Fenwick
British Carrot Growers Association
Tel: +44 (0)1507 602427
Fax: +44 (0)1507 600689
Email: wendy.fenwick@britishgrowers.org
www.britishcarrots.co.uk