A North Somerset cider firm could soon be selling its much-loved drinks as far away as China, if an upcoming visit to the country proves fruitful.

Thatchers Cider, based in Sandford, has already expanded into North America, but is now looking east to determine whether China could provide an ideal market for its products.

Staff from Thatchers will be taking a three-week trip around the country, with visits to retailers and distributors in seven major cities including Shenzhen, Shanghai, Qingdao and Beijing.

Martin Thatcher, managing director of Thatchers, said, “China already enjoys wine and beer imported from Europe. We feel that the time is now right for us to look to introduce Thatchers Somerset cider to them too.

“China represents a huge opportunity for us; working with the CBBC (China Britain Business Council) and UKTI (UK Trade and Investment) has given us valuable insight into the market and has helped us to understand the developing tastes of the Chinese consumer.”