A SOMERSET cider has become a national industry leader as the company sees profits soar.

Ongoing demand for Thatchers Gold, the flagship brand of the Sandford-based company, has contributed to a sales increase of nearly a third in just a year.

Thatchers is fast becoming one of the region’s biggest success stories as the second best-selling draught cider in the UK.

The company, based at Myrtle Farm in Station Road, was founded in 1904 by William John Thatcher and now employs 120 people.

Its annual turnover has increased from £40,832,000 in 2012 to £51,832,800 in 2013.

This year the company is dedicating £6.5million in a marketing campaign including a national TV advert and sponsorship of events and festivals such as GoldCoast OceanFest in North Devon.

Managing director Martin Thatcher said: “Care for the environment and creating a sustainable business for future generations is a key focus for us.

“The continued investment into our employees and our facilities supports the growth of our brands both at home and increasingly overseas.

“To make the best cider, we need the best input all around us and that includes the orchards we own and the quality of our apples we grow, the passion and talent of our staff, to our production facilities.”

In 2013, Thatchers Vintage Cider was also awarded the accolade Champion Cider in the International Brewing Awards.