Members of the Vale of Evesham Asparagus Growers’ Association at their annual meeting at the Royal Oak, Badsey, 50 years ago, heard from the hon secretary, Mr D A Jelfs, that they could look upon the last year as up to average.

The Journal of 1960 reported: “Paid-up membership stood at 66, a slight decrease on the previous year, and this figure was most disappointing. About the annual show held in May, he said the decision to hold it in Badsey instead of Evesham had proved very wise.

“The number of exhibitors was six up on the previous year and the highest since 1954; and the total entries was an increase of 15 over 1959, and again the highest since 1954.

“The champion bundle was Mr C W Brotherton’s, Messrs A G Keen and Sons gained most points, three trophies were won by Messrs V G Keyte and Son, and one by Messrs F H Byrd and Son.

“As hon treasurer Mr Jelfs reported that receipts totalled £272 13s. 6d and expenditure £254 16s 2d – giving a profit of £17 17s 4d.

“The president, Mr Adam Howley, commented there has been more support and interest at Badsey and it was also more convenient.

“Mr Howley asked for reports on the seed from Canada which members planted early in the year.

“The seed had apparently germinated quite well, but the plants were not very large.

“He also reported on the trials for the production of all-male plants which had been taking place during the past few years. As a result of these trials there was now a few thousand roots of all-male plants.

“It had also been ascertained that a plant could be both male and female, but it had not yet been proved what pollinated asparagus.”