The Higgins Group is experimenting with the logistics of moving enormous quantities of spuds around the country, and plans to deliver at least 1,000 tonnes of its tubers by rail instead of the traditional road method.

David Higgins, managing director, said: 'We are always looking for new ways to improve our service to our customers. Rail is increasingly seen as a more environment friendly mode of transport, and if it should also prove to be cost effective and reliable, then many more tonnes of potatoes may be delivered in this way.' The Higgins Group is one of the UK's largest potato-marketing groups, and handles more than 350,000 tonnes of the product annually. It was forced to look at alternative transport methods owing to rising fuel prices and mounting road congestion.