The Asparagus Express at Broadway in 2018, the year that Broadway station opened. This was the last time the event was held on the railway. Credit: Wychavon District Council
The British Asparagus Festival, a cherished Vale tradition heralding the arrival of the beloved green spear, kicks off once again this St Georges Day with an aspara-tastic steam train journey on the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway.
The launch event marks the start of two months of celebrations dedicated to all things asparagus, and is filled with music, Morris dancing, and the company of none other than Gus the Asparagus Man and the legendary St George himself.
On Tuesday, April 23, the festivities begin with a gathering of Morgans and other classic cars at the Fleece Inn, Bretforton, from 9.30am, where attendees can get into the spirit of the occasion with music and dancing before embarking on a journey to Broadway station. The Asparagus Express Steam Train departs Broadway at 11.35am bound for Cheltenham Racecourse, returning at 12.55pm (arriving at Broadway at 1.56pm).
Catherine Johnson, marketing manager of the GWSR, said: “The GWSR is thrilled to be involved in this fantastic event, celebrating the beautiful asparagus our region grows – it is great to be involved in the transportation of this on our fantastic locomotive. In the past, asparagus was transported to market over our railway from the Vale of Evesham, so we are turning the clock back.”
Over the years, The British Asparagus Festival team has been to Buckingham Palace, Worcester Cathedral, the European Parliament in Brussels, Royal Hospital Chelsea and many other places to support good causes. This year, the fresh grass will be donated to the Cheltenham-based charity National Star, where students will whip up asparagus into delicious dishes to be served at the StarBistro, showcasing the very best of English seasonal and local fare.
Tickets are available for purchase with a 5% discount for online bookings in advance at www.gwsr.com; please note that tickets are for the Broadway to Cheltenham (return) steam train ride only. Find out more about the festival at www.britishasparagusfestival.co.uk
