[Growster...]

We grew some 'Kestrel' second earlies this year, and some of them became huge, such that they're even too big to bake!

But the problem arrives when we cut them open, and find a big, brown empty void in the middle. They really don't look good after all that baking, and I've never seen this before!

Any clues anyone?

(It's really a bit odd, as we should have finished them by August, but the crop was larger than we thought..0:(

[Goneterseed]

Kestrel is one of my staples along with Desiree. Both are slug and wireworm resistant.
I've not had this problem. You say that some are very large, kestrel are not reputed to be huge spuds.
Have they possibly had a soaking in heavy rain and split to allow water into the centre?

[greenjay]

I have had this happen, not sure what variety
the potatoes just seem to grow to fast for themselves
I think its called hollow heart?

[mumofstig]

Holy or holey? lol

It's called Hollow Heart.

https://potatoes.ahdb.org.uk/media-gallery/detail/13213/3358

[Growster...]

Thanks All, it's definitely 'Hollow Heart'!

We had a rotten year for earlies here. The 'Swift' were pathetic, and these 'Kestrel' are OK but going green - even in a dark shed. They taste OK though. (that's the spud bit, not the hole)!

Next year we're planning to do the slaughter system - just let them get the size of a conker and take 'em all really early!

[Salmo]

No need to dig them early to keep them small. When they are the size you want just cut the tops off and dig them as you want them.

[Growster...]

No need to dig them early to keep them small. When they are the size you want just cut the tops off and dig them as you want them.

That makes a lot of sense, Salmo, thank you!