Mel Stride MP has visited Sandford Orchards Cider Works in Crediton, meeting with its Chief Cider Maker and a representative from the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM). Mel heard about the issues facing the industry, which has been hit hard by the closure of pubs earlier this year and by strict limits on events.
Chief Cider Maker Barny Butterfield explained:
“Unlike brewing beer, which is a quick and simple process, traditional cider-making takes time – sometimes more than three years from the initial harvest through to blending. We are doing everything we can do support our apple growers, such as buying up their available fruit, even though we may well end up not being able to press it, but that is preferable to the grower going out of business.”
NACM Public Affairs Director Mark Hopper added:
“Our great UK cider makers are very resilient, but the impacts of over 100 days of lockdown are creating a level of complexity never experienced before. Whilst they are all optimistic that the industry can bounce back, they need support now if they are to make it through the next few months.”
Mel said:
“Cider-making is part of our region’s heritage and there is a strong case for tax exemptions or other financial support for the industry which would not cost the treasury a huge amount because it is a relatively small industry. I will certainly look to raise this issue with the Chancellor, but we can all make a difference right now, by adding in a traditional west country cider to our shopping basket.”
For more information about the ciders available from Sandford Orchards Cider works visit www.sandfordorchards.co.uk.
