A FARM shop in Worcestershire is growing purple asparagus to add a bit of colour to your plate.

Darren Hedges, the manager of Revills Farm Shop, Defford, near Pershore, said the Stewart' variety originates from New Zealand, where people eat it raw.

He said "It's slightly sweeter than green asparagus and it adds a bit of colour to your plate. It might encourage children to eat something a bit different."

It is the first time the shop has grown the variety.

Mr Hedges said customers, who can sample the asparagus in the shop, were really enjoying it.

"We've been cooking it in butter and black pepper which is nice," he said.

"You can use it much the same as green asparagus."