Wisbech: Grapes found growing wild by River Nene in town

For along with the much-loved autumn hedgerow fruit, retired journalist Richard Humphries found bunches of plump grapes growing near the centre of Wisbech.

"There are bunches of them dangling from a grapevine over the verge along part of South Brink," he said. "And jolly nice they taste, too.

One of the bunches of grapes which Richard Humphries found growing in Wisbech (Image: Richard Humphries)"We are just about ready for the grape harvest. One of the nicer benefits of climate change."

Mr Humphries, 76, who lives nearby, has previously grown his own grapes in a conservatory.

Retired journalist Richard Humphries, from Wisbech (Image: Ian Burt)He believes the fruits are all growing on a single vine.

"I counted 14 bunches of grapes but I'm sure there are more amongst the brambles," he said.

"Not enough grapes to produce a decent quantity of Wisbech blanc but maybe in a few years time."

Some of the grapes found growing in Wisbech (Image: Richard Humphries)The grapes were found growing near the River Nene in Wisbech (Image: John Hocknell)Grapes found growing wild in Wisbech (Image: Richard Humphries)

The hot summer of 2022 was said to be the best so far for East Anglia's commercial vineyards.

Dry weather produced smaller fruits, with a more concentrated flavour.