A SOFT drinks producer near the Welsh border discussed some of the main issues facing the industry with Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Michael Gove.

The MP, who was in the running to be the next Conservative party leader, visited the Knighton firm and discussed the forthcoming deposit return scheme for PET bottles, which Radnor Hill supports. It's hoped the scheme will encourage consumers to recycle.

Mr Gove listened to concerns regarding the implementation of the scheme before going on a full factory tour where he saw bottles being made from 51% recycled material as well as Tetra pak cartons.

He also had a chance to view the state-of-the-art effluent plant which was installed last year, when he visited the site on Sunday, July 21.

Radnor Hills managing directors, William Watkins, said: "It was pleasure to have the Minister come to visit us. He was very interested in what we had to say at this crucial time for our industry.

He seemed to take a lot of notes which I hope is a sign that he found the visit useful."

Last year Radnor Hills became ISO 14001 accredited for their environmental management system, which means they meet international standards.

All of the products they produce are 100% recyclable and now also use 30% recycled plastic shrink wrap to protect their products before they ship them out. This is an industry first and is also 100% recyclable!