A HEREFORDSHIRE cider maker is celebrating a major achievement.

Westons Cider, creators of Henry Westons and Stowford Press, has been named a sustainability champion of the UK by the British Institute of Innkeeping for the eco-friendly ethos at their mill in Much Marcle.

The award recognises suppliers and businesses that work alongside the pub industry which have gone above and beyond to demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Westons Cider was praised for its work over the past year at its Much Marcle mill, including an increase in the use of solar panels, up 300 per cent in the last year, saving 60 tonnes of CO2, equal to boiling four million cups of tea.

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Seventy-two tonnes of cardboard have also been saved throughout 2023 after trays were swapped for cardboard pads when packing cider for transportation.

Westons has also invested in new labelling technology to apply paper labels, reducing plastic use across production. Additionally, the two new cider presses they installed last year run entirely on renewable sources of energy and are 20 per cent more efficient than the previous machines.

“We’re incredibly proud to be named a champion in our industry for our efforts towards sustainability by the British Institute of Innkeepers,” said Sally McKinnon, Head of Marketing at Westons Cider.

“It’s a fantastic award to receive and one that ensures the entire industry is striving for continued progression in sustainability.”

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