CIDER drinkers are raising a glass to a Herefordshire company which has scooped top prize at the International Beer Competition.

Westons premium cider 1880, which has just been launched in celebration of 125 years of production, was the toast of the judges in yesterday's event.

The cider-maker has been producing ciders and perries in the village of Much Marcle, Herefordshire, since it was founded by Henry Weston in 1880.

"The premium cider 1880 is a testament to our founder and his family who have had the foresight and creativity to develop and grow Westons over three centuries, while remaining true to their traditional values and heritage," said Roger Jackson, Westons director of sales and marketing.

The award-winning beverage is carbonated and made by Weston's master cider maker from a blend of a number of specially selected ciders. "The year 2005 will one of celebration to mark such a remarkable anniversary and 1880 is the perfect toast to the success of the last 125 years," added Mr Jackson.

"Winning a gold medal in such a highly-respected competition confirms that through our ideals of quality, tradition and heritage we continue to be recognised for quality products with real cider taste."

The cider 1880 is the first product to bear the membership mark of the National Association of Cider Makers.

The Association's mark demonstrates the brewers complying with their code of practice in terms of marketing and production.

With the amount of alcohol at a stronger than average 8.2 per cent, Westons 1880 is sold as an extra strong cider and is available to buy in both 275ml and 500ml bottles.