PRESS RELEASE

The hearty potato comes in many different textures, flavours and shapes and, the Ayrshire potato is without a doubt top of the crop, with its unique, fresh flavour and rich earthy smell. This year, the first delivery of the Ayrshire new potatoes couldn’t be any fresher, with the first crop arriving at Sainsbury’s Saltcoat store tomorrow (21 May) at 11.30am via tractor, straight from William and Donald Jack’s coastal farm in north-west Ayrshire! Specialising in growing two varieties - Epicure and Maris Peer – William and Donald Jack have been supplying Sainsbury’s with Ayrshire potatoes for the last three years. In addition to supplying the first crop of Ayrshire new potatoes to local stores, William and Donald also cultivate spring barley and produce silage and grassland for the farm’s sheep and cattle. Encouraging and protecting wildlife and insects on the farm and in the local area to thrive is very important to the farmers and this in turn, replenishes the land and makes for the best possible first crop of the season. The two main varieties of Ayrshire potatoes are Epicure and Maris Peer, the former being the early crop and the latter being second crop. Grown on the west coast of Scotland, which enjoys the benefits of the warm Gulf Stream, the sandy soil retains its temperature, allowing the Ayrshire crop to grow early and thus making it one of the first new potatoes of the season. Originating from as far back as 1867, the Epicure crop is characterised by its smooth, round and white skinned appearance, turning pick on exposure. The potatoes’ white flesh and semi-floury texture make this variety a culinary delight – perfect for steaming, whole roasting and pan frying – delicious enjoyed both hot or cold. The white, waxy appearance of the Maris Peer crop matures slightly later than the Epicure first crop – producing an oval potato with shallow eyes – ideal for salads, boiling and baking. Sainsbury’s potato buyer Julien Roberts comments, “ The delivery of the early crop of Ayrshire potatoes is an exciting time for both Sainsbury’s and our customers. Sourcing directly from local growers, such as William and Donald Jack, ensures that our customers can enjoy the Ayrshire potatoes at their very freshest, whilst allowing Sainsbury’s to support the local community, which is something we feel very strongly about.” Enjoy the first crop of Ayrshire potatoes with this tempting recipe suggestion: Ayrshire New Potato, Tuna, Tomato and Fresh Bean Salad Serves 4 500g Ayrshire new potatoes 250g Tuna tinned in brine or water 150g French beans 6 ripe vine tomatoes 1 large head of cos lettuce 40ml (3 tbsps) olive oil Juice of half a lemon Method 1. Cover the potatoes in cold water, bring to the boil and simmer until tender. Drain the potatoes and place in a large bowl. 2. Whisk the olive oil and lemon juice together and pour half of the mixture over the warm potatoes and leave to cool. 3. Cook the French beans in boiling water until tender, and then plunge into iced water and drain. 4. Cut the tomatoes into wedges and break up the cos lettuce, then wash and drain. Add the beans, tuna, tomatoes and lettuce to the potatoes. Season and pour the remaining dressing over the salad.