Ian Kelsy grows bananas in Newent

Retired GP Ian Kelsy is celebrating his success growing bananas for the first time at his unheated greenhouse near Newent.  Since his retirement Ian has been working towards his dream of becoming self-sufficient and developing a smallholding in the area with his partner, Liz Christian.  'It's fantastic after three years persevering with a number of varieties, Dwarf Orinoco, is now producing. I put it down to climate change' says Ian although his own expertise as a grower and banana enthusiast no doubt plays a part.  Ian and Liz are active in Transition Newent and supply the local fruit shop Pippins with their produce.