THE family of a man who regularly entered a giant vegetable competition are competing in his memory.

John Bufton took part in the CANNA UK Giant Vegetables Competition for more than 20 years, regularly placing in the top three for growing the longest bean.

Sadly, he died earlier this year, but his family are continuing his legacy by taking part in this year's event, which forms part of the RHS Malvern Autumn Show at the Three Counties Showground.

John’s children, Emily and David, and their mother Pam, have all been working hard to grow their entries for this year's Giant Vegetable Championship at Malvern Autumn Show, with David using John’s prized seeds hoping to score a winning place.

Emily, known from Three Fruity Ladies on BBC Two’s ‘Top of the Shop’ with Tom Kerridge, said: “Mum and Dad have always been keen gardeners with Dad judging horticulture sections at many local shows.

"He lived for his garden. We continue to grow veg to make our preserves, and for the love of gardening of course.

"We as a family this year decided to all have a go at growing the longest bean this year."

In addition, Emily’s 6-year-old daughter is hoping to enter her own beans into the competition.

The CANNA UK National Giant Vegetables Championship will be judged on September 23 with winners being announced on day one of Malvern Autumn Show, on September 24.

To showcase John’s pride and joy, the family have also held a memorial open garden in which they have so far raised over £2,000 for St Michael’s Hospice.

This year's Malvern Autumn Show runs from September 24 to 26 and features events, talks and the best of regional produce.

Advance tickets to the Malvern Autumn Show cost £18 for general admission, children under 16 go free.

For further information or to book tickets see www.malvernautumn.co.uk or call 0344 338 5400.