Planting was initially delayed by a fortnight due to the long winter before a late bout of frost killed the first rounds of crops.

And since April showers failed to fall, Jersey Royal growers have estimated the first round of crops could be reduced by up to 50 per cent.

Mike Renourd, technical director for the Jersey Royal Company, said: "It's looking like the first half of the crop will have a significant yield reduction."

Crops planted later are expected to be un-affected.