An estimated 20,000 people flocked into Alresford for the annual Alresford Watercress Festival on May 18. Classmates Toma Macpherson and Aoife McAllister, both aged seven and from Sun Hill Infant and Junior School in Alresford, were crowned Watercress King and Queen for the day by Tom Amery, managing director of The Watercress Company, with real watercress crowns made by local florist Wild Bunch. The World Watercress Eating Championships was as usual the climax of the festival. Perennial champion Glenn Walsh, from Alresford, triumphed again, eating a 100g bag of watercress in just 58 seconds. But it was a very close call, with his watercress-eating nemesis Sam Batho hot on his heels throughout. Festival manager Claire May said: “I’d like to thank everyone involved for making it another amazing festival - the fantastic volunteers, who give up their time free of charge to help on the day, our generous sponsors without whom it simply wouldn’t happen, but also the thousands of people who come each year to celebrate wonderful watercress. We look forward to seeing you next time, on Sunday, May 17, 2026!”
