Aspall sets up 'Cyder Garden' in London pub

A South London pub has become home to the first "Cyder Garden" set up by Suffolk producer Aspall.

And more are planned in other pubs next year as part of a £1m investment in the brand, Aspall said.

A batch of crab apple trees have been planted in the back garden of the Fentiman Arms, Oval, and Aspall has provided branded parasols.

An outside bar has also been set up offering Aspall's products.

Ed Turner, commercial director of the Fentiman Arms' parent company Geronimo Inns, said: "We've always wanted to have a cider garden, where the pleasures of freshly cooked food and a good-looking garden can be entwined with a collection of fine ciders."

The Aspall ciders served are draught Suffolk Cyder and Peronelle's Blush.

Geoff Bradman, commercial director at Aspall, said the initiative is part of a £1m investment in the brand this year that will involve more gardens. "Our Aspall Cyder Garden brings a real taste of the Suffolk country into the heart of the city," he said.

"We are already planning to open additional Aspall Cyder Gardens from 2011 to encourage consumers to associate the category with food while making the most of pubs' outdoor space."