The finishing touches are now being applied to Cornwall's first asparagus festival - including this king-size version of the versatile vegetable.

The "human asparagus" will be much in evidence during the festival at Falmouth's Penmere Manor Hotel on Sunday, May 13.

The unrecognizable occupant of the costume is restaurant supervisor Kim Mathews - who is being admired by its maker, assistant housekeeper Wendy Phillimore, right, and festival organiser Jo Ramsden, both holding samples of the real thing.

Wendy, well known for her work on the Falmouth Carnival circuit and for the Showstoppers at the Princess Pavilion, has spent the last two months planning and making her latest creation.

"Human asparagus" Kim will be a star attraction during the free Penmere Manor day out, which will run from 11 am to 3 pm and has been partly inspired by the huge success of the Falmouth Oyster Festival.

The programme will also include a children's entertainer, local flamenco artist Jon Salfield, stalls, competitions and a hamper raffle in aid of Cornwall Hospice Care.

Gvalda, who thrilled visitors to last years' Oyster Festival. His delicious asparagus creations will be offered for free sampling.

A Sunday lunch menu with an asparagus theme is being prepared and there will be educational information provided by Tregassow explaining the process and history of asparagus farming.

Visitors will be able to learn many different ways of preparing and cooking fresh, locally produced asparagus, with recipe sheets for every dish available.

"Asparagus is so versatile it can be enjoyed by everyone - the young, the old, families, the health-conscious and pregnant women alike," says Jo Ramsden. "We're all geared up for a great festival, which we are confident will make Falmouth the undisputed asparagus capital of Cornwall!"