Sainsbury’s has started selling British blueberries three months earlier than last year – and its work with British growers is set to yield the biggest blueberry crop yet.

Hampshire-grown blueberries hit selected stores this week and Sainsbury’s will now sell British blueberries until October.

The retailer said working with more British growers and offering a selection of varieties had allowed it to offer British blueberries earlier than usual and in greater quantities.

“Being able to offer British blueberries in Sainsbury’s stores months earlier than previous seasons is another example of where we work closely with our growers to offer British varieties when available,” said blueberries buyer Ian Cambridge.

Blueberries grown on the south coast will be available from this week, with Scottish fruit set to go on sale in August.