A bumper pumpkin crop has sparked a surge of visitors to a Norwich farm shop as families seek some autumnal fun to brighten the gloom of a crisis-hit year.

Eastern Daily Press: White House Farm in Norwich has seen an upsurge in interest in pumpkins this year from families seeking some traditional autumnal fun. Pictured: Olivia Gurney, 4, with some of her parents' bumper pumpkin crop. Picture: Charlotte GurneyWhite House Farm in Norwich has seen an upsurge in interest in pumpkins this year from families seeking some traditional autumnal fun. Pictured: Olivia Gurney, 4, with some of her parents' bumper pumpkin crop. Picture: Charlotte Gurney (Image: Charlotte Gurney)

Charlotte Gurney, who runs White House Farm in Sprowston with her husband Oliver, said the farm’s pumpkin patch is “more popular than ever” as families, restricted from meeting others due to social distancing rules, sought to find safe, fun outdoor activities for their children with half-term looming – and with worries over potential tightening of coronavirus rules if the pandemic worsens in the coming weeks.

“We opened earlier for pumpkins this year, but I think the reason we have been busier earlier is because people might be fearful of what lies ahead,” she said.

Mrs Gurney said this year’s colourful crop has produced “some absolute whoppers” – creating perfect Halloween picture opportunities which visitors were keen to take advantage of.

“It’s all about making memories and it is the photo opportunity that Instagram loves,” she said. “Our social media pages receive incredible activity at this time.”

Eastern Daily Press: White House Farm in Norwich has seen an upsurge in interest in pumpkins this year from families seeking some traditional autumnal fun. Pictured: This pumpkin is so big that one-year-old Antonia Gurney can fit inside. Picture: Charlotte GurneyWhite House Farm in Norwich has seen an upsurge in interest in pumpkins this year from families seeking some traditional autumnal fun. Pictured: This pumpkin is so big that one-year-old Antonia Gurney can fit inside. Picture: Charlotte Gurney (Image: Charlotte Gurney)