North Hampshire District Group Visit to Vitacress

A wonderful sunny day for the North Hampshire District Group visit to the Vitacress watercress plant in May 2022. The first event of its kind in two years and it was very good to be back out and about.

A group of members from across Hampshire had a most enjoyable and informative visit recently to the Vitacress production site at Abbotts Ann, near Andover.

Ron Bainbridge, who has been farm manager at the site for around 30 years, guided us through the growing processes, from seed to the end product, and took the group on a tour of the watercress beds. Ron explained the different ways of growing the crop and showed us the types of machinery used, both old and new. His wealth of knowledge made the visit very interesting and the group indulged in asking many questions. Indeed, Ron’s passion for the environment, wildlife and, his job, made for a very interesting and informative visit.

The photographs, taken by Des O’Donnell and Hannah Houstin-Lacey, provide a small memento of the group’s enjoyable visit.

Members and friends from across Hampshire are always welcome to join the Group’s visits – please check the website for all up and coming events.

Report by Hannah Houstin-Lacey, May 2022