Gordon Castle in Grampian village of Fochabers grows monster marrow
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
This massive marrow reared at Gordon Castle is nearly 4ft long and weighs in at over five and a half stone.
The vast vegetable, which is so big it's difficult to pick up, has now been put on proud display at the visitor attraction near Fochabers.
Ed Bollom, head gardener at the castle's walled garden, states the marrow has prospered thanks to ideal growing conditions.
He said: "The seed came from a guy in Wales who holds the British record for the biggest marrow.
"We just grew it in a bed outside alongside the potatoes and pumpkins, making sure to add lots of manure and liquid feed.
"And the weather has been ideal.
"It was really sunny in June at the start of the season, but then got quite rainy come August.
"Sun followed by rain, plus good soil – it's what you need if you're looking for really big vegetables."
Ed, whose last job was working for Prince Charles at Highgrove, reckons his team at Gordon Castle might grow something even bigger next year.
He said: "After it's been on display we're going to give our marrow to the chefs at the castle's café.
"We'll let them have the problem of what to do with it.
"However, we're going to keep the seeds.
"I reckon with a few adjustments we'll be able to break the seven and a half stone barrier next time round."
