The annual National Vegetable Competition has started in Britain, drawing in large crowds to witness giant vegetables that have broken world records. The event, taking place over three days at the Malvern, Worcestershire, showground, is expected to welcome over 65,000 visitors. Among the exhibits is a massive honey pumpkin, weighing 465.5 kg and measuring 130 inches in circumference, which required a forklift to transport.
The competition has already seen seven new records set, including the heaviest sweet corn at 0.8 pounds, the longest cucumber at 24.6 feet, and the heaviest beetroot at 26 kg. Graham Barrett, a British vegetable farmer, owns the giant honey pumpkin and has nine entries in this year's competition. He previously held the record for the longest cucumber in the world, measuring 7.5 meters.
Veteran competitor Joe Atherton, 71, is seeking to regain his title for the longest radish, a record he has held in 2024 and 2025. He has entered 20 items into the competition, including a 13 kg watermelon and an 18.5 kg onion. Another competitor, 82-year-old Peter Glaisbrook, has been growing giant vegetables for 40 years and has entered a 3.564 kg eggplant and an 11.66 kg beetroot.
Maggie Walter from Plymouth won a £1,000 prize for the heaviest tomatoes, while the heaviest pumpkin on display weighed 1258 kg. Each competitor is allowed two entries per category, and all produce must have been grown in the UK, Channel Islands, Northern Ireland, or the Republic of Ireland. The competition features 33 categories, including squash, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cabbage.
The event's popularity is evident, with many visitors attending to marvel at the enormous vegetables on display. Competitors have high hopes of breaking more records and taking home prizes. The competition is being held at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, Worcestershire, and will run for three days.
Britain's giant vegetable competitions have a long history, with many enthusiasts dedicating years to cultivating massive produce. The events have become popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. This year's competition promises to be an exciting event, with many record-breaking vegetables on display.
As the competition continues, visitors can expect to see a wide range of giant vegetables, from pumpkins and squash to carrots and potatoes. The event is a celebration of British horticulture and the skill and dedication of the competitors. With many new records expected to be set, the competition is set to be an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
Key points
- A giant honey pumpkin weighing 465.5 kg has been entered into the competition.
- Seven new records have been set on the first day of the competition.
- Over 65,000 visitors are expected to attend the event over three days.
