Perry, a traditional drink is still very much alive in the country areas.

1:42pm Thursday 20th November 2008

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THE increasing availability of pear cider has not spelled the end for one Herefordshire’s historic tipples.

Perry, a traditional English drink much enjoyed in country areas, is still very much alive despite the high profile of a new kid on the block.

Westons, the Much Marcle company currently promoting its organic pear cider, still makes the long-established favourite but its production is limited.

Heather Mead, marketing executive, said: “Perry has to be made from perry pears and pear cider can be made using other good quality of pears.

“Perry has been increasing in popularity but there is a scarcity of perry pears. It takes much longer for them to reach maturity so there is a limit to how much perry can be made.”

Ms Mead said more perry trees had been planted but it would be several years before they produce fruit. The company currently makes three different types of perry.