Chip shop owners, managers and an MP got to see first hand the journey a potato makes before it reaches their shops at a farm on Monday.
About 90 people, some from as far afield as the Shetland Islands and Belfast, visited Isle of Ely Produce, of Oak Tree Lane, where £2million worth of farm machinery was on display.
The event, which kicked off with a speech from MP Lucy Frazer, was a chance for suppliers to exchange ideas and listen to experts from across the industry.
Speakers included Carlyn Kearney, owner of multiple award-winning Frankie’s Fish and Chips in the Shetland Islands, and National Federation of Fish Friers president Gregg Howard.
The afternoon included a visit to one of the biggest potato farmers in the area, J Gilbert & Son, where acres of fertile land were on display and Mark Gilbert gave chip shop owners a talk.
A second free event, hosted by Isle of Ely and targeted at farmers, is taking place today. New varieties of seed aimed at the chipping and crisping sector are being showcased.
Organisers have invited potato growers to attend and a number of speakers, including seed breeders, are sharing their expertise.
Austen Dack, of Isle of Ely Produce, said: “It was fantastic. Yesterday we invited suppliers, today we focused on the farmers that grow the potatoes.”
Up next for Isle of Ely Produce is their popular annual potato race.
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