PAPAYAS the size of coconuts and lemons the size of melons are readily found on tropical islands but now they are also available at a Southampton fruit shop.
Peter Smith, 36, pictured, owner of Fruitopia in Woolston and Bitterne Park, could not believe his eyes when his latest consignment of Brazilian papayas were almost twice the size they normally are.
He said: "We have had them that big once before but we never thought we would see them again until we got this batch on Monday.
"People who come from abroad are used to seeing fruits this big but in England we're not.
"They are slightly different from the usual ones we get but they are still sweeter."
An average papaya weighs around 250 grams but these giant ones weigh about 1.3kg each and are selling really fast from both of Mr Smith's shops.
He added: "Last year we got lemons from Sicily that were the size of honeydew melons. They were huge.
"We have a few Italian customers and they told me it was normal for them to be that size but we're just not used to seeing them like that in England."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article