ONE of Scotland's oldest coppersmiths has toasted 50 years of operations at its factory in Alloa.

Abercombie Coppersmiths, founded in 1790, has made thousands of copper stills for the whisky industry since switching to Caledonian Road in 1965.

Now part of Diageo, owner of 28 Scotch whisky distilleries including Talisker, Dalwhinnie, Cardhu and Lagavulin, it employs 43 coppersmiths, some with more than 40 years' service. It also has nine apprentices on its books, with the skill continuing to be handed down through the generations.

Abercrombie's work is sought after as distillers expand production to keep up with global demand, and as older stills require to be replaced. Stills favoured by different distillers vary across the country, giving rise to the myriad styles and flavours the Scotch whisky industry is known for.

Charlie King, operations manager at Diageo Abercrombie, said: He said: "The traditional art of the coppersmith is central to the process of making Scotch whisky. Quality copper stills produce quality whisky and we are very lucky to have a team of highly skilled craftsmen here in Alloa who can produce the best in the business.

"I'm particularly proud that we're able to take on young people as apprentices and train them in this traditional trade."

Abercrombie coppersmiths, past and present, were joined by Keith Brown MSP, minister for infrastructure, investment and cities, to celebrate its landmark in Clackmannanshire.

Mr Brown said: "The Scotch whisky industry is an important part of the Scottish economy, and here in Clackmannanshire Diageo has made an important contribution to the local economy for many years as one of our largest employers.

"Apprenticeships are a key way to support young people into sustainable and rewarding careers and I welcome Diageo's ongoing commitment to apprentices here in Alloa and across all areas of their business."