Stourgarden charity

(L-R): Shervin Behzadi, Cancer Research UK, Williams, and Rix

Onion grower Stourgarden this week presented Cancer Research UK with a cheque for over £17,000.

The amount was achieved through donations received from sales of the Essex firm's exclusive Rosanna Pink Onion packs at Tesco stores.

Stourgarden commercial manager, George Rix, said: 'It’s been great to work alongside Cancer Research UK for a second year and to do our bit to raise awareness and money for the cause.

'Rosanna continued to grow in sales throughout the season despite some tough harvesting conditions in September last year handed to us by the weather. Crops in the ground this year are looking fantastic, and we’re optimistic for a huge year of Rosanna onions ahead.'

Tesco onion buyer, Emma Williams, added: 'Rosanna onions continue to be a hit with our customers as this year's donation to Race for Life shows. The amount is a substantial increase in last year’s total and highlights the growth that Rosanna is bringing to the category.

'Going forward, we look forward to the continued collaboration with Stourgarden and the Cancer Research UK’s Race For Life.'

The specialist onion variety, which launched as a three-pack exclusively throughout Tesco stores nationwide in October 2012, has recently seen an increase in demand, which resulted in a new 750g pack being launched in early 2013.

The three-in-line packs cost £1, while the 750g pack is 75p. Two pence is donated to the charity for every pack of Rosanna onions sold.