STALWART English apple Cox has reclaimed its crown as the nation's best selling apple.

After 2001's bumper harvest, the variety has replaced its arch-rival Braeburn as the first choice of the UK consumer.

Braeburn has stolen a march on its competitor in recent years, with its shiny red and green livery and 12-month availability being key factors in its success.

But Cox, with its smaller size and sober skin finish and only eight-month availability, seems to have won the battle on taste.

Many multiples report that when available Cox is the consumer's darling, with many shoppers enjoying its sweet and tangy flavour and its aromatic qualities.

A spokesman for Tesco told The Independent: 'This season's UK crop of Cox is fantastic and it is outselling Braeburn.' A spokeswoman for Marks & Spencer added: 'As soon as tree-ripe English Cox came in, it outsold Braeburn. Cox is the only traditional variety which remains a top seller.' Other than Braeburn, foreign strains such as Royal Gala, Pink Lady, Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are popular.

Cox aside, the Egremont Russet is the only other UK variety to make a mark in the retail world – from a choice in excess of 2,300. l