SCOTT Mann, MP for North Cornwall (Conservative) was getting in the spirit on Friday at a visit to Wrecking Coast Distillery to see first-hand how they produce their famous clotted cream gin.
Founded by three friends, Avian Sandercock, Steve Wharton and Craig Penn, they have gone from strength-to-strength. Their products are distilled and bottled locally, using local produce, and have become a firm favourite for people across the Cornwall area.
Mr Sandercock, one of the founders and head distiller of Wrecking Coast, was keen to win the support of Mr Mann for the UK Spirits Alliance’s campaign to fix duty. The campaign seeks to ensure government lessen the burden on spirits producers by maintaining a stable duty regime.
Mr Sandercock said: “It was fantastic to welcome Scott Mann to our distillery. We’re really proud of the products we produce and so it’s great to get the support of our local MP.
“We have asked him to take the message back to Westminster that the best way to support businesses like ours across the country would be to ensure the government reduces the tax burden on businesses like ours.”
A spokesperson for the UK Spirits Alliance said: “It’s great to see MPs across the country recognising that spirits are a British success story and the future of UK drinking. We hope they will support our campaign to stop any duty rise for spirits in this budget.”
Mr Mann said: “I really enjoyed my visit to Wrecking Coast Distillery where I met the team who are producing our famous clotted cream gin.
“UK spirits is a British success story creating jobs, investment and economic growth across all four corners of the UK, including here in Cornwall.
“I welcome the government’s commitment to review spirits duty to ensure the industry continues to flourish.”