THE boss of a traditional family-run Herefordshire cider company has died, it was announced today.

Norman Weston, chairman of Much Marcle-based H Weston and Sons Ltd, passed away last Thursday, December 30, at the age of 88.

He is survived by his wife Maureen, daughters Helen, Diana and Juliet and sons Henry and Tim.

Helen, Henry and Tim continue to maintain the family tradition working for the company as managing director, orchard director and audit director respectively.

After leaving school in 1932 Mr Weston built up the business, having been taught cider-making by his uncles.

Mr Weston was the grandson of Henry Weston, the founder of Westons Cider, who arrived at The Bounds at Much Marcle, Herefordshire, in 1878.

The development of commercial cider-making began in 1880 when Henry recognised the threat from overseas imports, which had been created by the expansion of the British Empire.

Today, Westons' traditionally produced, award-winning draught and bottled products are available throughout the UK and exported to 14 countries worldwide.

Still based on the original farm, the company now employs 80 people, produces 40 different ciders and perry, and sells approximately 1.4 million gallons a year.

It has an annual turnover of £7.5m.

Recent changes include a new visitor's centre, which is open to the public all year round.

It comprises an award-winning garden, originally featured at the Hampton Court Palace Flower show in 2002, a museum with cider equipment, a rare breeds farm, and a restaurant and shop.

Details of Mr Weston's funeral have yet to be released.