Belgium, Italy and Switzerland have joined the Cameo Club and are planting commercial orchards - which will boost the total European crop by 2,000 tonnes, according to variety manager Fiona Davidson.

Speaking to FPJ at last week’s National Fruit Show, Davidson predicted that 8,500t of Cameo apples will be produced across Europe this season.

The new members, which follow in the footsteps of the UK, France and Germany, will increase Cameo volumes when the orchards become mature.

Davidson said: “This year has seen a major change with the establishment of Cameo Europe, which creates a far greater level of common discipline rather than relying on voluntary agreements.

“It will also allow the variety to gain greater visibility."