MUCH water has flowed under the bridge since William Watkins began bottling Radnor Hills mineral water on his family farm.

Twenty-five years later, the business near Brampton Bryan has been nominated for the coveted St David Award for Enterprise 2018.

This annual Government scheme recognises exceptional achievements within the principality, the UK and globally and is the highest accolade conferred by the Welsh Asssembly.

Mr Watkins, director and founder of the company at Heartsease Farm close to the Herefordshire border, is one of 25 to be shortlisted for the honour which be announced at the Senedd in Cardiff on March 22. The categories recognised by the award include bravery, citizenship, culture, enterprise, innovation, sport and young person.

First Minister, Carwyn Jones will also give a special award on the night.

“This event, now in its fifth year, is a celebration to acknowledge just some of the people who have had input to make the significant different to someone else’s life, overcome adversity or have achieved something truly inspirational.”

William’s company has been producing soft drinks from the farm since 1993 and has become a £40 million concern employing 180 people from the local area. In many cases more than one generation of a family are working together at Radnor Hills.

The company keenly supports local charities and community projects from primary schools to youth groups and community centres to name a few.