Hendrick’s challenges drinks trade to grow their own cucumbers

Quirky gin brand Hendrick’s is challenging members of the drinks trade to see who can grow the biggest cucumber to help raise funds for The Drinks Trust.

The brand is inviting over 150 drinks professionals working in the hospitality industry to take on the challenge and will donate £10 for every first sprout, £20 for every first flower and £30 for every first cucumber grown during the competition.

The ‘Grow Your Own Cuke’ initiative has also received a £5,000 donation from William Grant & Sons’ Standfast Campaign.

There will be the chance for the growers taking part in the event to invite friends and family to sponsor their efforts via a Just Giving page.

With weekly ‘weigh ins’ and essential growing tips, Hendrick’s will support the budding botanists throughout the competition.

The extravaganza will culminate in a virtual Cucumber Cultivation Celebration, with awards and prizes given for accolades including the wonkiest cuke, the cucumber with the most personality, and the most respectable cucumber.

“It is surprisingly easy to grow your own cucumbers at home. I’ve been doing it for years, and not only do I have the gin and tonic garnish always ready at home, the plants are also particularly wonderful conversationalists,” said Hendrick’s brand ambassador, Sarah Berardi.

Hendrick’s master distiller, Lesley Gracie, added: “Hendrick’s has always held the cucumber in the highest regard and we wish to put our devotion for cucumbers towards a noble cause.

“We invite all those with a curious mind to embrace their unusual side and support us in our efforts to raise funds for our friends in the trade.”

Those interested in taking part in the great British cucumber off can register here to receive a Cucumber Cultivation Kit in the post. While those wishing to donate to the initiative can do so here.