Silt and sea air expected to make brussels sprouts 25% bigger this year

In a development likely to inspire both joy and dismay round the Christmas dinner table, farmers are forecasting brussels sprouts will be 25% bigger this year.

- Mark Sweney

Good growing conditions, the introduction of new varieties, and a dose of sea air have resulted in a crop of super-sized sprouts for this festive season.

The vegetable wholesaler TH Clements, a supplier to Tesco, has told the supermarket that the average sprout size this year is 30mm in diameter, compared with 24mm last year, when growing and harvesting conditions were poor.

"The quality of the festive crop that has been coming through in the last few weeks is among the best we've had in recent years," said Simon Tenwick, buying manager at Tesco. "We are certain sprout fans will be delighted."