Daffodil harvesting in Cornwall is going ahead as usual despite storms and record rainfall as pickers battle against the elements.
Winchester Growers, a division of Univeg UK, said that this year 400 million stems will be packed at its site near Penzance, Cornwall.
Of that amount, 280 million will be grown by the firm itself. The harvest will be hand-picked by 580 workers.
General manager Chris May said that the flower’s sheath may show some storm markings, but the flower will open as normal.
The area has seen a “once in a lifetime storm” five times in seven weeks, according to May.
He said: “The harvesting teams have been incredible. They have persevered through 100mph winds, rain, hail and sea spray. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated team, and our heartfelt thanks go out to them for their ongoing commitment to this challenging task.''
He added: “It is a wonder that any flowers are available at all, but remarkably retailers are still receiving supplies of this early spring flower; a sign that hopefully winter will soon be behind us.”
