ONE thousand asparagus spears have been delivered to the Chelsea Pensioners.

The pensioners were chosen as every year the first-cut Vale of Evesham asparagus is delivered to a special location.

The 1,000 spears were delivered by a Morgan car and convoy including Gus the Asparagus Man, the mascot of the British Asparagus Festival.

The Vale of Evesham team also presented the Chelsea gardening group with a freshly-cut crown of asparagus for them to plant in their garden.

St George’s Day also marked National Asparagus Day hailing the start of the asparagus season that lasts just six short weeks.

The Festival, now in its 10th year, is taking place in The Vale of Evesham until June 21. Numerous events and activities will take place during the festival which honours the growing, harvesting and eating of the asparagus.

A highlight is the Asparagus Family Colour Fun Run, taking place at The Valley, Evesham on Sunday, May 19, where asparagus green paint bombs will rain down on runners. Visitors also enjoy the the Asparabus Tours, complete with ‘asparaguide’ on May 9 and May 16. To find out more visit britishasparagusfestival.org