DORSET-grown apples will be squeezed into the products of a new cider venture launched by Palmers Brewery.

The brainchild of the award-winning Bridport brewery, Dorset Orchards is a range of premium keg and bag-in-box ciders made from Dorset apples only.

The cider has been created with support from David Sheppy of Sheppy's Cider, whose family have been making traditional ciders for more than 200 years.

In April this year, the company launched its first cider, Apple Bee, and in early July it is bringing out its second label, First Press.

The apples for Apple Bee and First Press have come from orchards near Beaminster. They are a mix of classic cider apple varieties, mostly bittersweets.

First Press (alc. 5.5% vol) is a traditional still cider with a distinctive full flavour and refreshing bite, typical of artisan West Country ciders.

This is the first time in 221 years that Palmers, who like Sheppy's is a family firm, has been involved in cidermaking.

Chairman John Palmer said: “Customers in our pubs appreciate quality cider and there has been an enormous growth in demand for the drink in recent years. We’re delighted to have Sheppy’s expertise in creating a premium home-grown Dorset cider.”

David Sheppy said: “Dorset Orchards is a great idea and one we’re pleased to be associated with. The Sheppy’s name is renowned among cider makers for producing quality, traditional cider.”

Apple Bee is already available in most Palmers pubs in Dorset, Somerset and Devon and in selected free houses in the South of England. First Press will be available from the beginning of July.