Scotland's first neep picking patch aims to revive Halloween turnip carving tradition

Scotland’s first neep picking patch hopes to take family fun back its roots and revive turnip carving traditions this autumn.

Pumpkins have become a popular replacement for the humble neep during spooky season, but it is hoped the quirky patch, organised by Lidl, will bring back the tradition of crafting tumshie lanterns ahead of Halloween.

The patch will pop up at Chatelherault Country Park in South Lanarkshire in October, with produce for the event grown by 25-year-long supplier, Stewarts of Tayside.

An on-site Tumshie Tent will have a team on hand to hollow out guests’ lanterns alongside an area for kids to get crafty before venturing out on the Tattie Bogle Trail.

Scotland's first neep picking patch hopes to take family fun back its roots. — Scotland’s first neep picking patch hopes to take family fun back its roots. Lidl Scotland

There will also be a play area on site with games including a Neep Shy, Neeps and Crosses and Bowling with Neeps as well as a straw bale chute.

Sessions will run from October 12 to 14 in the morning and afternoon.

Kids under 11 can get into the event for free, and adult tickets cost £5 with all proceeds going to the STV Children’s Appeal.

Produce for the event will be grown by 25-year-long supplier, Stewarts of Tayside. Lidl Scotland

Marco Ivone, Lidl’s regional director for Scotland, said: “Lidl has long been a champion of great quality Scottish produce and neeps are no different – in fact, we’ve worked with our long standing supplier, Stewarts of Tayside, for over 25 years.

“This year, we’ll give the humble neep the stage it so deserves and celebrate the fading art of tumshie lantern carving, while giving Scots a one-of-a-kind day out that’s rooted in tradition.”