Growers in the Rhubarb Triangle around Bradford, Wakefield and Leeds, are aiding the fight against cancer, new research has revealed.

Researchers at Sheffield Hallam University have found baking British-grown rhubarb for 20 minutes can dramatically boost its levels of anti-cancer chemicals.

The findings, published with the Scottish Crop Research Institute and funded by the Centre for Food Innovation, showed the chemicals, called polyphenols, could kill or prevent the growth of cancer cells.

It was found that they could be used to develop new, less toxic, treatments for the disease.

It is the first time the benefits of Yorkshire-grown rhubarb have been studied. Previous research focused on Oriental medical rhubarb, which has been recognised for its health benefits.

David Tomlinson, whose family run B Tomlinson & Son in Roker Lane, Pudsey, said: “If it does help cancer, that is excellent. We all ready know it is a good food, with plenty of fibre in it.”

Mr Tomlinson said the indoor rhubarb crop was now being harvested and was in high demand. “It is one of the ‘in’ foods at the moment,” he added.

Bradford-based supermarket Morrisons said it expected demand for rhubarb to soar in light of the new research.

Michael Jackson, fresh produce buyer at Morrisons said: “We sell a huge volume of rhubarb from the Rhubarb Triangle in Yorkshire and it’s a clear favourite with our shoppers.”