ABSTRACT
In the preface to Volume 1 it is explained how for several years there was a close relationship between the University of Cambridge (Department of Applied Biology) and the UK fruit trade. Specifically, I acknowledge the part played by the National Federation of Fruit & Potato Trades in financing a long-term research and advisory post. This enabled me to carry out extensive surveys of fruit and vegetable consignments, usually in connection with legal claims arising from losses. I am especially grateful to my former research supervisor, Dr Peter Lowings, for introducing me to this world of 'forensic plant pathology'. I thank all the importers who commissioned me to survey their cargoes, and I am indebted to numerous individuals who gave of their time and expertise in the markets, ports and packing stations, both in the UK and abroad.
