AS foodstuffs go, it is usually mackerels that have the monopoly on holiness - but now it seems an aubergine is getting in on the act too.

Pravin and Bharti Darji, from Fryent Grove, Hendon, opened their fridge on Saturday morning to discover the vegetable had metamorphosed into a spiritual relic overnight.

Imprinted on the side of a half-cut aubergine was the sign of Aum — or Om - a religious symbol for infinity.

Mr Darji, 58, said: "We couldn't believe it when we saw the symbol. If you turn the aubergine on the side, you can even see it in 3D.

"It is definitely mystical, and is very good luck to anyone who finds it. Sometimes honest, spiritual people who worship every day will be shown a sign to show that God is with you.

"This is God's gift to us."

The couple, who are devout Hindus, said they would put the vegetable into their temple at home to "bless it with prayer" every day.

Already, dozens of friends and family have visited to see the holy veg for themselves.

But it is not the first aubergine miracle to occur in the UK. In Bradford in July 1997, two simultaneous sightings were reported.

One woman sliced nine aubergines for a curry and discovered the Aum symbol on every slice. The vegetable attracted hundreds of worshippers from all over the country and is now on display at the local Brapadi Temple.

At the same time, in another district of Bradford, a couple also discovered the sacred symbol. Their divine veg is now on a shrine surrounded by incense at the Shree Temple in Little Horton, where people queue for up to an hour to view it.

The symbol appeared after Mrs Mistry decided to chop the aubergine horizontally instead of vertically, as she had done with the other vegetables.

She told friends: "I don't know why I changed. If I hadn't, the sign would have been lost for ever."

The Darjis, who have preserved their discovery in vinegar, believe their relic will attract a similar response.

"We have emailed all our friends, from India to America, and they are shocked," said Mr Darji.

Have you ever found a symbol or picture in a vegetable? Comment below or call reporter Rebecca Lowe on 07795 305271.