They were among dozens who responded to an appeal for help from farmer Tom Spilman, who farms at Helperby, near Thirsk.
5. Vegetable delight
A recipe for asparagus was given in a 3rd century cooking book - some consider it an aphrodisiac Photo: Bruce Rollinson
6. Helping hands
Around 80 people applied to work on the farm - including volunteers Photo: Bruce Rollinson
7. Rich pickings
Greeks and Romans ate asparagus fresh when in season, and dried the vegetable for use in winter. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
8. Tasty dish
Farmer Tom Spilman prefers a simple approach. We have it just boiled with some butter and salt - sometimes roasted. Photo: Bruce Rollinson