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The Guernsey Botanical Trust in association with Waitrose, has launched the first of its “Guernsey Tom” events on 7 April with the aim of educating islanders on the history of the tomato and encouraging cultivation of the classic tomato seeds.
As part of this year’s Visit Guernsey Heritage Festival the event, held at the National Trust Courtyard and Folk and Costume Museum in Saumarez Park, saw more than 200 ‘Nisbitts Victoria’ seed packets provided by Waitrose.
The seeds are reputed to have first been grown in the 19th Century, possibly at the start of the tomato growing industry, and have been sourced from Chris Smith of Pennard Plants in England and placed in a special Guernsey Tom packaging.
Guernsey Botanical Trust’s President, Raymond Evison OBE, said: “There is a fascinating history that surrounds Guernsey’s tomato growing and export industry and we want to preserve it.
“This is just the beginning of our work to celebrate the original Guernsey Tom.”
Throughout the event Malcolm Cleal gave workshops on growing the tomatoes and local poet George Farnham did several performances of his poem, “Just save one for me,” on the preservation of the local greenhouses. The GBT also sold home-made tomato soup.
Ian Burdekin, branch manager of Waitrose Admiral Park, said: “We are pleased to support an event that encourages the growth of local produce and celebrates Guernsey’s rich heritage to a new generation.”
