The resources committed to the brand, chiefly linked to Rugby League, was already a record investment for the business and a raft of additional activity is planned to extend the gains being made by Kingstone Press.

As a result a broadcast sponsorship and advertising deal with the Premier Sports Channel has been unveiled and a number of stadia are being extensively branded in advance of the Rugby League World Cup this autumn.

Finally, as an Official Partner of the England Rugby League Team, product and promotional plans to be announced will exploit the extensive interest around the World Cup tournament that will grip the sporting public during October and November.

Glen Friel, sales and marketing director at Aston Manor Cider is clear on the value derived from the investment, he said: “Having seen the profile, distribution, and rate of sale of Kingstone Press increase following the decisions we made earlier this year, we have committed even more investment to build on the success we are enjoying.

“With the Kingstone Press Championships we have an exciting platform in a major sport in growth. This has supported the progress the brand is making and we are even more confident that Kingstone Press will rapidly become a major cider brand in every distribution channel.”

The Kingstone Press Championships culminate in a Finals Day at the end of September.

The deal with the Premier Sports Channel has seen Kingstone Press become the sponsor of all live coverage of Championship Rugby League on the SKY platform. There is also frequent advertising slots for the brand.

The branding investment at stadia, including, World Cup venues, both reinforces the profile of the cider as well as increasing the rate of sale. The distribution gains for Kingstone Press have been significant across Rugby League clubs.

Away from the sporting arena, the brand has extended the offer with the launch of the Kingstone Press Wild Berry.

Glen Friel added: “Importantly the investment we are making means support for Kingstone Press through the key summer period and into the autumn – extending the gains we are making.

“Having grown the brand we are already considering the opportunity this affords us. Our association with a leading sport will continue, however, we recognise the potential to broaden the appeal of the brand even further introducing new consumers and extending usage occasions.”