A VEGETABLE grower is searching for willing workers to join its family farm team this summer to help get the UK crop of Tenderstem from the field to our dinner tables.

With labour shortages threatening this season’s crop, AS Green & Co, a specialist vegetable grower based in Mathon, is looking to recruit 100 pickers and 60 packers.

The recruitment drive comes as the government confirmed that the growing number of staff furloughed due to the Covid-19 crisis will be allowed to take on paid employment and keep their full salary from their second job, as well as the 80% they receive from their furloughed position.

The roles, which will run between June and November, offer people in Herefordshire the opportunity to boost their income."

READ MORE: Herefordshire farm 'inundated' with local applications for picking and packing posts

Andrew Green, owner of AS Green & Co, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in soaring demand for fresh produce, but with tighter border controls and travel restrictions in place, many UK farmers have been left with a labour shortage, putting their produce at risk.

“In line with the Feed the Nation campaign, we are looking for local workers to join our family team in Mathon. Not only does the role provide the opportunity to work in a safe, healthy environment throughout the summer months, but it also enables those who have been financially impacted by the pandemic to boost their income, without jeopardising the support they will receive through the Government furlough scheme.

"They will also be playing their part in keeping the nation stocked up with fresh, healthy home-grown produce.”

With those working in food production considered ‘key workers’, successful applicants will be free to travel to work, as well as receive educational support for their children. The role pays £8.85 per hour, with bonus, and accommodation and travel can be arranged if required.

Experience in the food industry is preferable but not essential, with training provided to all successful applicants. Anyone interested in applying for a role should visit the AS Green & Co website.

Click here to visit the AS Green & Co website.