TWO Cumbrians have won first and second place in a national leek-growing competition.
Joe Calvert, 79, from Kirkcambeck near Walton, came first in the National Pot Leek Society competition 2023, having won it the year before.
Longtown man Terry Nyczaj came second, marking two Cumbrian victories in a competition known to be usually dominated by northeastern talent.
Joe spoke on his victory and his history in the art of leek growing, a longstanding rural tradition in the UK.
“I’ve been doing this since the 70s, but it isn’t as well known now as it used to be," he said.
“Winning this is a tremendous thing, I won among 31 total entries.”
The competition, run by the titular society, was based in Seaham, near Sunderland.
Joe travelled to the venue on Friday, September 1, leeks in hand, to be judged the following day with results announced on Sunday.
On why he grows leeks competitively, he said: “It’s just a hobby for me, but for some, it’s a business, especially in the northeast.
“It’s like a religion up there!
“Next year I will have to defend the title!”
READ NEXT: Looking back at Cumbria's most renowned vegetable: the leek
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here