A new fruit resembling a small strawberry but tasting like bubblegum has gone on sale in the UK.

Bubbleberries - or fragaria Moschata - were popular in the 19th century but gradually fell from popularity, according to Waitrose, which is stocking the fruit for five weeks from today.

The retailer described the berry as "beautifully fragrant, with the unmistakable taste of bubblegum".

Waitrose berry buyer Nikki Baggott said: "This is one of the most aromatic berries we have ever sold at Waitrose. The bubbleberry has an incredibly strong perfume which will take you straight back to your childhood.

"They have an incredibly familiar taste, which is much more likely to be found in a sweet shop than the fruit and vegetable aisle.

"We hope our customers will enjoy experimenting with this surprising flavour."

The supermarket said the berry could be used in any dessert, recommending them served with ice cream, folded through marshmallows or frozen with melted white chocolate.

Bubbleberries are available at selected branches of Waitrose at £4.99 for 100g.