20 May 2011, 15:09 PM
  • British tomato growers are cashing in after continental crops fail to prosper in Spain's recent wet weather conditions

In line with British Tomato Week (15th to 22nd May) farmers and retailers have been able to take advantage of the UK’s hotter climate by selling punnets of sweet, home-grown fruits.

Although, Spanish tomatoes may have dominated the market for some time, Gerry Hayman, the British Tomato Growers’ Association spokesperson, comments on the downside of imports. “When people say tomatoes don’t taste like they used to, it’s because four out of five are imported.

“When Spain joined the European Community, it invested a massive amount and developed long-life tomatoes that delayed the normal ripening process so they can survive the five-day journey from southern Spain. They look OK but are tough and tasteless,” he says.

The fresh crops that are now emerging are proving popular at independents because they are rekindling the nation’s love for British ‘tommies’.

And, although British Tomato Week officially comes to an end on 22nd May, promotional events will continue all summer long. Check out www.britishtomatoes.co.uk for more information.