The Asparagus Express Steam Train will be running along the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway to help launch a special festival.

The train will be running from Broadway to Cheltenham Racecourse and back on Tuesday, April 23, transporting the first 100-round of Vale of Evesham asparagus in iconic style through the breathtaking Cotswold countryside.

The fresh 'gras' will be donated to the Cheltenham-based charity National Star, where students will whip up our prized asparagus into delicious dishes to be served at the StarBistro, showcasing the very best of English seasonal and local fare. 

 The British Asparagus Festival, a cherished Vale of Evesham tradition, heralds the arrival of the beloved green spear, kicks off once again this St George's Day.

The launch event marks the start of two months of celebrations dedicated to all things asparagus, and is filled with aspara-antics, music, Morris dancing, and the company of none other than Gus the Asparagus Man and the legendary St George himself.

On Tuesday, April 23, the festivities begin with a gathering of Morgans and other classic cars at the Fleece Inn, Bretforton, from 9:30am, where attendees can get into the spirit of the occasion with music and dancing before embarking on a journey to Broadway station.

The Asparagus Express Steam Train departs Broadway at 11:35am bound for Cheltenham Racecourse, returning at 12:55pm (arriving at Broadway 13:56pm).

Catherine Johnson, marketing manager of the GWSR, said: "The GWSR is thrilled to be involved in this fantastic event, celebrating the beautiful asparagus our region grows - it is great to be involved in the transportation of this on our fantastic locomotive and supporting National Star is an added bonus.

"In the past, asparagus was transported to market over our railway from the Vale of Evesham so we are turning the clock back."

Over the years The British Asparagus Festival team has been to Buckingham Palace, Worcester Cathedral, the European Parliament in Brussels, Royal Hospital Chelsea and many more, presenting the hundred to worthwhile causes.

National Star chief executive Lynette Barrett said: "Preparing young people with disabilities for adulthood is what National Star is all about. An important part of that preparation is learning about healthy eating, understanding the importance of local seasonal food and of course how to prepare balanced and tasty meals.

"We are thrilled that the British Asparagus Festival has chosen StarBistro at National Star as the final home for the first hundred-round of Vale Asparagus. National Star students will be at the ready to transform the asparagus into delicious soup and then enjoy their efforts!"

Secure your seats now for The Asparagus Express. Tickets are available for purchase via the GWSR website. Please note that tickets are for the Broadway to Cheltenham (return) steam train ride only.

A national charity based in Gloucestershire, National Star provides specialist personal development, care and support for young adults with complex disabilities and learning difficulties. 

They offer full and part-time, residential and day education for around 200 young adults aged between 16 - 25 years old, at Ullenwood, Hereford and Wales. The charity also provides long-term living for 32 young adults in Malvern, Cheltenham, Hereford and Gloucester.