The biggest tomato producer on the Isle of Wight is inviting visitors to meet its farmers and sample its produce, at a summer open day. Vitacress Tomatoes, Arreton, will be taking part in Open Farm Sunday, a national scheme encouraging people to learn more about where their food comes from and support local producers.
At the open day, on June 7, visitors will be able to tour the glasshouses to see the tomato crop, sample artisan products made by Vitacress subsidiary The Tomato Stall and watch a cookery demonstration featuring the farm's tomatoes, herbs and salad leaves.
There will also be children's activities and refreshments.
Farmer Brian Moralee said: "Each year we grow eight million kilos of tomatoes. Isle of Wight tomatoes are amongst the best in the world – thanks to our dedicated team of growers, the maritime climate and the many hours of sunshine the Island enjoys. We trial hundreds of varieties, from which we select around 40 to grow commercially. I have been growing them for over 20 years and I still find them a fascinating crop.
"On Open Farm Sunday we will be explaining more about why Isle of Wight tomatoes are so special and what goes into growing them. Of course there will be plenty of tomatoes to taste too."
Source: www.iwcp.co.uk
