by Ruth Banks

Fruit farmers in Kent could have to replace apples with kiwis if winters continue to get milder.

Scientists at horticultural organisation East Malling Research say traditional British crops could struggle to grow in warmer temperatures, as many of them require a period of winter chill.

Apples, pears, blackcurrants and hops all need to experience prolonged periods where the temperature is above freezing, but below seven degrees Centigrade.

As global warming raises temperatures in the south-east, this could mean that farmers are forced to look to alternative breeds of crops, or even more tropical fruits like kiwis.

"In the south-east we are already experiencing a 12 per cent reduction in the number of chill hours each winter," said head of science, Chris Atkinson.

"Under the worst-case greenhouse gas emissions scenarios, winter chill in Kent has been predicted to decline by more than 50 per cent by 2080. This will impact significantly on growers."

However, what is bad news for the county’s beer and cider producers, could be music to the ears of its wine makers, as warmer temperatures could boost grape production.