M&S to debut home-grown golden raspberries

The first home-grown golden raspberry is set to debut exclusively at Marks & Spencer next month.

The Estrella variety - Spanish for star - has been grown by award-winning soft-fruit grower Adam Shorter in Headcorn, Kent.

The sweet variety, which originates from California, has adapted well to the cooler UK climate, to produce the first crop in this country.

Raspberry sales have rocketed over the last couple of years, with TNS figures showing a 50 per cent rise in industry-wide sales.

M&S sales have risen by 80 per cent over the same period.

M&S berry specialist Emmett Lunny said: “The Estrella raspberry has a wonderful sweet taste and looks magnificent as part of a summer dessert. Raspberries are soaring in popularity and our research shows that people are clamouring for new types.

“As well as making an eye-catching pudding or snack raspberries are a healthy way to round off a meal. Children will love their novel colour, as well as the sweet flavour.”

The raspberries go on sale in August, priced at £2.99 for 150g.