A COUPLE are set to launch a new vodka and gin distillery with its roots set firmly in the Yorkshire Dales.

Tony and Sarah Brotherton, from Tunstall, near Catterick Garrison, are preparing to officially open the doors of the Yorkshire Dales Distillery – The Home of the Ram, in Colburn, using Yorkshire botanicals and ancient mineral water drawn from the Swale.

The couple’s first spirits – Purple Ram London Dry Gin and Smokey Ram Yorkshire Vodka – will be officially launched at an event at the distillery on Tuesday, February 28.

Mrs Brotherton said: “The Home of the Ram is a small distillery with big ideas. We are delighted to have established our family business in the heart of Richmondshire and we’re aiming to use all Yorkshire products in our spirits.

After 18 years’ service in the Royal Artillery, including operational tours of Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo and Cyprus, Mr Brotherton decided to follow his heart, take the leap and retire from the Army.

With support from the Army, he took part in a series of workshops and work experience, as well as studying for a Masters in brewing and distilling at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh which enabled him to launch the business.

Mrs Brotherton said: “My background is in business management, and Tony’s father was a chemical engineer working in the brewing industry, so we were able to drawn on his experience.

“Tony’s grandparents, who are sadly no longer with us, also swore by a gin and tonic to get them through the tough times following the war. His grandfather confided in us years later that he would often save the gin for his wife and he would secretly just have tonic if they were short.”

She said the distillery is making its gin and vodka very differently to many others – resulting in a gin which is extra smooth with subtle flavours, and a smokey vodka.

As the distillery grows, the couple hope to train and employ ex-service personnel, ex-offenders and young people.

Sir Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “Gin is very much the drink of the moment - across the country, artisan gin and spirit producers are storming the scene, and Yorkshire is no exception.

“I am thrilled to see the launch of a new distillery in Richmondshire and we wish Tony and Sarah the very best of luck in their new venture.”

For more information visit www.yorkshiredalesdistillery.co.uk.