Marks & Spencer, long-time supporter of the National Cherry & Soft Fruit Show, traditionally held at Detling at the same time as the Kent County Show, is backing a drive to widen participation held this year on July 16-18.
Show chairman John Leigh Pemberton, who took up the role last year, wants the event to attract entries from beyond Kent, which has always been the main source of support in the past.
He appealed to growers to compete and exhibit. “There may not be prize money, but there is some outstanding silverware, apart from the prestige of winning which often attracts valuable publicity,” he said.
Andrew Sharp, M&S technical manager, revealed that to make it easier to enter, a refrigerated vehicle was being made available to bring fruit free-of-charge from as far afield as the West Midlands, the day before judging.
Sharp also confirmed that for the first time English blueberries would be appearing and there would be variety tastings.
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