The owner of an ancient Fife pub is looking to secure the future of the world’s oldest Highland Games with the launch of a commemorative gin.
The Ceres Inn, which celebrates its 300th anniversary next year, has turned to modern technology to market the Ceres Highland Games Gin in honour of the historic annual event, held in the village since the 1300s.
Owner Lennox Harrower intends to donate a percentage from the sale of each bottle to raise £1,000 to help keep the games running.
Although Covid-19 scuppered plans for this year’s event, the games have been held on the last Saturday in June since 1314 under a charter decreed by Robert the Bruce in recognition of the 19 local men who fought beside him at Bannockburn.
Mr Harrower intends to develop his business into a digital hub post pandemic, with online sales of the gin and the development of a lockdown takeaway business already under way.
The new website will contain access to products and services available locally, not just from the food and drink sector.
Adapting the way he operates amid the ongoing coronavirus restrictions should help him protect his own business’s future as well as that of the games, he said.
“We are delighted to be playing our part in ensuring that the rich history of the games continues and very much hope to be celebrating with them next June, during our own 300th year,” said Mr Harrower.
Business Gateway Fife has supported the launch, providing help to deliver a digital marketing strategy for the new gin, the pub itself and its 300th anniversary celebrations.
Adviser Alasdair Busby said: “Lennox has shown great innovation and commitment and by adapting his business model during this pandemic it has allowed him to sustain the business and help safeguard its future.
“The Ceres Inn is at the heart of the village and plays a vital role in the community.”
The Ceres Highland Games Gin is available at www.ceresinn.co.uk
