Green Bean

This should be in the Western Telegraph on the 24th of May.. 

"Springfields farm in Manorbier hosted more than twenty Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire locals last week during a field-to-table asparagus tour and tasting organised by Slow Food.

Food enthusiasts, a handful of youngsters, Farmer’s Market producers, and shopkeepers converged on Nick and Pat Bean’s asparagus beds for a guided tour and fact-packed presentation. As the evening sun faded, the party shared fresh asparagus, various regional treats, and a drink over friendly chat and discussion.

The children’s reaction was impressive. Mari, 7, was fascinated by Pat Bean’s careful harvesting and bundling demonstration of the delicate vegetable. Tom, 12, pensively tucking into his plate of steamed, buttered tips, revealed to his mum his plans to dig up the lawn and plant his own asparagus bed, and a cherry orchard too.

Later, the Beans explained their pleasure in meeting consumers so interested in food production. “People who value local food are vital to small businesses”, said Nick Bean. “Faced with competition from asparagus flown in from around the globe, it is especially important for us to build strong relationships with local customers.” As Vicky Stewart-Liberty, manager at Narberth’s Ultracomida delicatessen got into her car clutching asparagus bundles, destined for tommorow’s menu, that relationship was evident.

The Springfield’s asparagus visit was planned by Slow Food, an international movement whose aim is to protect the pleasures of the table from the homogenisation of modern food. Local groups organise numerous initiatives throughout the year to promote food enjoyment and education, as well as to preserve traditional products and agricultural diversity. To find out more about Slow Food, contact Lynne Crompton in Narberth. (01834 8869454)"

Thanks to David for the pictures!