This pear-shaped garden classic was produced by Charles Sharpe of Sleaford. He was a major miller, merchant and seedsman in the town and may not have been personally responsible for his company’s varieties. Express has high dry matter, very good flavour and cooks well although boiling requires care. It was TV gardener, Percy Thrower’s favourite. Several of Scotland’s leading growers traditionally certify a small patch to keep the variety going for their own family use.