A NORTH Herefordshire producer of premium drinks has been announced as the main stage sponsor at a festival celebrating the best of the county's foodie scene.

Jo Hilditch, founder of White Heron Drinks, will be the main stage sponsor at the inaugural Hereford Food, Drink and Music Festival organised by Big Bull Events Ltd in July.

Jo, who is well-known for her support of Herefordshire farming and producers, has spent more than 10 years establishing British Cassis, her premium blackcurrant liqueur brand, and sees her sponsorship as a great opportunity to lend support to grassroots food and drink production.

She said: "I have previously been involved in supporting the Herefordshire food festivals and was deeply saddened when a lack of funding meant that these couldn’t continue.

"I am delighted that the Pugh family have taken it upon themselves to develop a new festival with an exciting format and I wanted to show my support for it.”

The British Cassis bar, next to the main stage, will be serving cocktails throughout the weekend. Visitors will also be able to enjoy samples of this award-winning drink in the food tent.

The Hereford Food, Drink and Music Festival will take place at Hereford Racecourse on July 1 and 2.