TONICS brewed by a Hexham company have caused a stir across the globe.

The town’s botanically-brewed soft drinks and mixer company, Fentimans, was celebrating double success when its Valencian Orange Tonic Water and new Oriental Yuzu Tonic were placed in the top two spots at the prestigious Class Bartender Brand Awards.

The success was followed up by the Valencian Orange drink gaining a first gold medal for a tonic water at the world-leading San Francisco Wine and Spirit competition.

The firm’s marketing director, Andrew Jackson, said: “This latest award is testament to the emphasis Fentimans places on creating unrivalled and innovative flavour.

“For our brand to be recognised and endorsed by the most influential people in the global drinks industry is incredibly humbling, and testament to the dedication and skill of the team we are building here in the North-East.”

The creation of the Valencian Orange drink came about to meet a rise in popularity of bitter Spanish oranges, and the standalone ingredient, particularly in gin, has helped create a modern twist on the flavour.

Mr Jackson said: “It combines the zesty citrus taste of Valencian oranges, combined with savoury notes from lemon thyme, to achieve a smooth and balanced taste profile.”

Both the Valencian Orange and Oriental Yuzu tonics are now being stocked at By the River Brew Co, an area on the Gateshead side of the Quayside housing food and drink containers.