A Russian trade delegation were able to sample some of the first asparagus of the season after stopping off at a Worcester restaurant. The Russians were given some of the first asparagus to be harvested this year during a tour of the Red Star Growers facility in Birlingham. And the group were so eager to try the crop that they visited the Swan at Whittington last week (Friday April 26) and gave the freshly cut asparagus to the pub’s chef to cook with their meal. Harriett Baldwin MP, who invited the delegation to visit the county, commented: “The delegation was very keen to see our asparagus fields and find out more about our world-famous crop. “We were lucky enough to be given some of the first asparagus to be cropped this year and our guests were eager to get a taste of the vegetable which is a delicacy in Russia. “Worcestershire produce is world-famous and I am sure we have won a few more very influential fans today.” The MP was keen to fly the flag for the county during the visit and fixed meetings with the county council leader Adrian Hardman as well as introductions to the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership and the Federation of Small Business. Harriett added: “Congratulations to all the local businesses with such notably excellent products. I was proud to be able to donate samples as gifts to our Russian VIPs. “Asiri Food’s chutney, Holywell Spring Water, Worcestershire Sauce and even miniature Morgan Motor Cars went into the gift bags. “Worcestershire has a great deal to be proud of and I am eager to fly the flag supporting local producers of all types.”