Мастер-цидарщик Дэвид Бриджман отмечает 60-летие сохранения традиций в Девоне

After six decades at the press, one cider maker is still keeping tradition flowing, having started as a 15-year-old apprentice before helping preserve the craft for a new generation. David Bridgman, master cider maker at Sam’s Cider, is marking 60 years of cider making at Western Barn in Winkleigh, Devon. David began in 1966, working at Western Barn under cider maker Sam Inch, who became his friend and mentor. He learned the traditional skills and techniques of cider making from Sam before going on to build a career spanning six decades. In 1999, site owner Bulmers decided to sell. David then acted to preserve cider making in Winkleigh and The Winkleigh Cider Company was established that year. With the Inch name no longer available, David chose to honour his mentor by naming the cider Sam’s Cider. David has also passed his cider-making knowledge on to the next generation of the family business. Chris Beardon, director, cider maker and David’s son-in-law, said: “David is an integral part of the business and truly the backbone of everything we do. He has taught me all he knows, which has enabled me to help carry the business forward and build on the ciders we produce.” Chris added: “It’s a privilege to continue his work and be part of his legacy.” The business continues to produce a range of ciders and scrumpies at Western Barn, where four original 110-year-old oak vats remain at the centre of production. Kylie Beardon, director and David’s daughter, said: “I’m incredibly proud of my dad and everything he has achieved. Some of my earliest memories are of him teaching me the art of cider making here at Western Barn.” Kylie added: “It’s a real family passion and something Chris and I hope to pass on to our children.” She added: “Dad’s a very humble guy and a real grafter, he doesn’t like a lot of fuss but celebrating his remarkable 60 years as a Master Cider Maker is a very special moment for all of us and we will celebrate with a glass or two of Sam’s Cider!” In June, David welcomed TV personality Fred Siriex to Western Barn to share his knowledge and passion for cider. David began his career as a 15-year-old apprentice and has since become master cider maker at the family business. More information is available at www.winkleighcider.co.uk.