RUNNER beans grown by a Vale of Evesham company are being snapped up by housewives in a major supermarket chain.

The beans are grown by Bomfords and sold through Somerfield which, after the launch of its bean promotion last week, has seen a 100 per cent hike in sales as shoppers have gone for them in a big way.

Somerfield bean buyer David Stokes said: "Celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver and Nigel Slater have helped increase the popularity of beans with recipes like bean mash and broad bean pasta."

He added: "This year we have seen an unprecedented demand for fresh beans and peas in our stores. Our customers are more aware of the different varieties that are available and when UK beans are in season. Wee going to stick with British while we can."