The British Herb Trade Association and Waitrose are throwing their weight behind the first Wholly Herbs show to be held in May. The BHTA will be working with the event organisers at West Dean Gardens, near Chichester, on the event to be held on May 14-15, 2005. The show is aimed at the public and intends to show the wide range of uses for herbs. And Waitrose will sponsor and attend the show.

The BHTA is staging a series of presentations across both days that aim to educate and inform people on the various aspects of herb usage. These will include the history,and cultivation of the plants as well as their culinary and medicinal uses. The BHTA will have a marquee with seating for 100 people and BHTA members on hand to try and answer questions from the public.

BHTA chairman, Ray Marriot said "The event provides us with an excellent platform to reach the public and inform them about our industry. It also gives BHTA members a focal point this year to launch our campaign to raise the profile of herbs"

West Dean Gardens already hosts successful events for tomatoes, apples and chillies as well as a gardening show .

BHTA has a 25 year history and has more than 80 members from all areas of herb production.

The association is run by a council of 10 members who meet three times a year. A technical committee meets twice a year and maintains regular e-mail contact with members.

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