The event was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Mytholmroyd and was the biggest ever attendance said Bev Plaxton, publicity secretary.

"It's an indication that more and more people are giving growing their own a try," she said.

Experts were on hand to provide tips.

"With the financial problems at the moment, more people are giving growing their own vegetables a try. Potatoes are really easy to grow, and can be grown anywhere – even in containers."

She said younger gardeners were delighted to find namesake varieties.

"We had two young girls called Madeleine and Anya who both went away clutching bags of their own potatoes, which was great to see."

Shoppers snapped up the 41 different varieties of both organic and non-organic potatoes.

Plenty of activities kept the crowds busy, including potato art and a potato cafe.

The Calder Food Hub and West Riding Organics also had stalls offering advice.