It has taken nine months to grow and it could become the world’s best. 

No, it’s not a baby – we’re talking vegetables here. 

Green-fingered Joe McKenzie, of Camp Road, Maryport, could see one of his skilfully grown leeks and onions top the scales at Sunday’s weigh in when his local pub hosts the annual World Leek and Onion Championships. 

He has just a few days left to ensure his exhibits reach perfection at home in his plastic greenhouses. 

The 71-year-old is hoping to overcome the scandal that hit his crop a year ago, just days before the 2014 contest. 

Vandals sabotaged his efforts after breaking into his greenhouses and ruining his produce. 

He said: “Last year someone vandalised my produce. “They were all damaged when someone slashed them with a Stanley knife. 

“Somehow I managed to get a second place but I was very restricted with the ones I could use. I’m hoping to do better this year.

 “I’ve been growing things for over 40 years. I like the challenge of getting the biggest and the best.” 

Joe and his friends Paul Scott and George Kemp are now putting the final preparations in place for Sunday’s show at The Lifeboat Inn. 

George, landlord of the pub, said: “We’ve been running the show for about the last six years and we get growers from all across the country. 

“The world record weight for an onion is 18lbs 11.25oz and it was set only last year at the Harrogate Flower Show. 

“If we get anything heavier it could be a world record and the Guinness lot would be notified.” 

He added: “We’ve got Peter Glazebrook coming. He was in the Guinness Book of Records and is renowned as being one of the best growers in the country. 

“Peter Holden, who is a six-time national leek champion, is also coming.” 

Paul added: “Onions and leeks like these take eight or nine months to grow from seed to something this size.

 “The leeks can be 20 inches in circumference but they all start off from tiny seeds that we work on. We’re already working on strains for next year.” 

Chief judge will be John Soulsby, of Gateshead. He will be joined by Joe Keelor, from Durham. 

Growers can enter up until noon on Sunday. Everyone is welcome to view the produce from 2pm. 

Winners in four categories – pot leeks, blanch leeks, giant onions, and quality onions – will be chosen. More than £2,000 in prize money up for grabs. There will also be a raffle. 

Anyone wishing to enter can contact George Kemp on 07825 085511.