A NORTH Somerset firm says sales have risen by a quarter as more and more drinkers convert to cider.

Sandford-based cider maker Thatchers has announced that it has achieved record cider sales with volumes increasing by 25 per cent year on year.

Other firms say there have been big increases in sales over the last year, with more people taking up the traditional West Country drink.

Shepton Mallet based Gaymers Cider Company enjoyed its busiest summer on record, with the largest yield of cider ever produced at its mill in Shepton Mallet.

In total, the site produced more than 2.3-million nine-litre cases of cider throughout June, which is the equivalent of 32m pints or 363,000 kegs.

This is an increase of 38 per cent year on year.

Increased demand for brands including Blackthorn, Gaymers original and Gaymers pear cider were the main reason for the increased output.

Meanwhile, Thatchers says its new blush cider, Katy Rosé, has helped fuel the rise in sales across the UK both in pubs and off-licences.

Managing director Martin Thatcher said: "Not only have we sold more cider than ever before over the last year, the range and complexity of flavours has been developed even further.

"Quality starts with the orcharding of the apples, both here in Sandford, and with our network of growers throughout the West Country, and through to our production processes, packaging and marketing."

Thatchers Gold is still the company's biggest seller, followed closely by the single variety cider, Katy, and Katy Rosé, which is now being sold in both Sainsbury's and Waitrose.

Mr Thatcher added: "We have plenty to be optimistic about for the coming year. Cider is the only long drinks category currently in growth by both value and volume, and Thatchers is the fastest growing cider producer by volume in the on trade. In the off trade, our share of the premium cider category is growing ahead of the market.

"Consumers continue to look for innovation and premium products."

Thatchers has planted 16 acres of new orchard in and around its mill in Sandford, including over 5,000 new Katy apple trees.