Would your potatoes get the 'Royal' stamp of approval?

Saturday 14 January 2017

Islanders are being invited to find out whether their potatoes would receive the ‘Royal’ seal of approval in Genuine Jersey’s annual spud showdown.

Sponsored by the Channel Islands Co-operative Society, the Jersey Royal Potato Growing Competition will see everyone from constables to primary school children compete for the heaviest crop and highest yield of the best-loved spud.

Last year saw over 7,000 children from 32 primary schools take part last year, with BBC’s Country File attending the 10^th anniversary ‘weigh-off’ event.

Pictured: Countryfile's Matt Barker attending last year's weigh-in.

Each competitor is expected to grow their crop from scratch, and will each receive a growing kit featuring two Jersey Royal seed potatoes, polystyrene chips, compose and fertiliser – and a bucket to grow them in. 

John Garton, Chief Executive of Genuine Jersey Products Association, commented: “The competition has grown significantly since we began and this year’s event will be no exception. So far over 50,000 primary school children in Jersey have taken part in the competition, which helps give them a greater understanding of how Jersey Royals are grown, and their importance to Island agriculture and history.”

St Christopher’s Primary School’s Reception class took the top spud spot last year - their bunch weighing in at 1.315 kg. Meanwhile, the prize for quantity was grabbed by St Peter’s Primary Recption class, with a total stock of 69.

Pictured: The Genuine Jersey grand weigh-in.

Colin Macleod, Chief Executive Officer of the Co-operative Society said that the company were “delighted” to continue their support for the annual event.

“The competition is a wonderful way of showcasing Island produce, while teaching children about how it is produced, and some of the benefits a healthy diet based on seasonal ingredients.”

This year’s weigh in will be held at Grouville Parish Hall in May. For more information, contact Julia Hunt on 735253.