Watercress ... it's champion and impressive!

Champion eyes 18th world watercress eating title

He held 17-time world watercress eating titles and the champion was preparing to defend his title at an annual event celebrating the leafy green vegetable.

The Alresford Watercress Festival in Hampshire marks the start of watercress season in the UK and a highlight of the event is The World Watercress Eating Championships.

"When they say go, you just open a bag and stuff it down, and it's the quickest time that wins, as simple as that really," said Glenn Walsh, from Bishop's Sutton, who was hoping for his 18th title.

Asked if he likes the peppery salad leaves, the champion, nicknamed the "Popeye of Watercress eating", said: "I don't mind a bit of it mixed in with something."

Glenn Walsh said he wins a cup for taking part but it is mostly about the "honour"

He said around 25 to 30 people take part in the contest to munch 80g* of the vegetable in the fastest time.

The festival is a not-for-profit event, hosting entertainment, crafts, food and cookery demos, with any money made being donated to charities, with children's cancer charity Abby's Heroes the main beneficiary.

Walsh said it started as a small festival but has grown into a massive event, attended by thousands of people last year.

He said it means he has competed with people from around the world over the past 22 years.

"I had Chinese radio one time there, I don't think they quite got my sense of humour but there we go," he said.

Speaking to Radio Solent, Walsh said he gets a cup for winning but he really does it for "the honour, I suppose".

Alresford became the centre of the watercress industry in 1865, when the rail line to the Georgian town opened, enabling farmers to get their leaves to market in Covent Garden.

It has since been named the UK's capital of watercress farming.

around 25 to 30 people tend to take part in the contest

Above images and words from article seen here

*Post update : Glenn Walsh did win his 18th title on 17th May 2026 and this year, it was a 100g bag, which was slightly more challenging.

Did you know that watercress has impressive health benefits

Watercress is a powerhouse vegetable that packs several important nutrients but is extremely low in calories. It contains a plethora of antioxidants, which may lower your risk of heart disease and several types of cancer. It’s also a good source of minerals that protect your bones. Additionally, watercress makes a delicious addition to any meal and is a nice change from the usual lettuce or spinach. Though watercress is hardly one of the most popular vegetables, its nutrition profile makes it a stellar addition to your diet, read more here

Recipe suggestions using watercress

Cod Roasted - with watercress sauce and roasted cherry tomatoes - see here

Tuna Steaks Seared and served with a pineapple salsa and watercress - see here

Egg and parsley salad with watercress dressing - see here

This blog offers a wide variety of articles and recipe ideas, and not all may be suitable for you. Always take account of your personal circumstances, needs, illnesses and medication you may be taking. Any allergies, or underlying health issues must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan