REGIONAL cider company Westons has bought £4million worth of apples as it celebrates one of its most successful years.

Based in Much Marcle, the company has struck deals with 180 regional growers to supply cider apples after a record 12 months saw it become the UK's fastest growing producer.

The £4million buy will allow Westons to make more cider than ever and support growers in the region throughout the autumn and winter.

Darryl Hinksman, head of business development at Westons Cider, said: "Cider making is an important part of our regional identity and we’re incredibly proud to have been contributing to the success of the industry for more than 140 years.

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"This year, we’re delighted to be sourcing more apples than ever from across Herefordshire and our neighbouring counties of Gloucestershire and Worcestershire, supporting the environment and our thriving rural economy.

"Our extensive network and wonderful local community are essential support for us when it comes to making our quality ciders, which are seeing huge growth around the UK."

The new agreements Westons has signed will see apples supplied by large fruit growers and smaller freeholds, with all the apples being sourced from within 50 miles of the mill in Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.

Last year, the company invested in a state-of-the-art canning line to keep pace with nationwide demand, while in 2020 Westons Cider celebrated 140 years of cider making.

As a result of the hot, dry summer, cider apples this year are expected to be smaller and sweeter, which Westons say makes for better cider.

The harvested apples will be collected and pressed between September and November to be used to create Weston Cider’s portfolio which includes Old Rosie, Mortimer’s Orchard and Rosie’s Pig.

Westons Cider employs 250 people at its mill in Much Marcle and has a turnover of £82.8 million.

The site attracts 40,000 visitors every year and is open for pre-booked tours, while its Scrumpy House restaurant is now open for indoor and outdoor dining, as well as takeaways.