HAMPSHIRE'S annual Potato Day in Whitchurch grows from strength to strength as this year's event proved when more than 900 people turned out to celebrate the humble spud.

"We were almost overwhelmed, but not quite," said organiser Phil Cooper, who was on hand at the Testbourne Centre to welcome visitors from across the south east.

There were more than 120 varieties of potato on show and sale, ranging from the very familiar to those of which only one acre of seed is grown in the world.

Experts were on hand to offer tips and advice and there were plenty of activities to keep youngsters amused.

"Among the guests was a gentleman who works for the Royal Horticultural Show's trials panel for vegetables," said Phil Cooper.

"He seemed very impressed with the event and with what was on offer and is even talking of testing some of our varieties at Wiseley!" he added.