THE Lakes Distillery held a VIP event to thank its founders and give guests a chance to taste its first whisky.

The distillery, at Setmurthy, was the first one to open in Cumbria and is currently working on its first single malt whisky, which will be ready in December 2017.

John Drake, distillery manager, said: "The founders are absolutely key to us, they've helped us start the distillery. It's great to have an opportunity to meet them and let them taste our whisky after a year of production.

"It makes me a bit nervous but it's a great test and an opportunity to get feedback on what we're doing.

"It's something you have to do at some point and people's senses and noses are a great measure."

The distillery has around 1,800 members in its founders' club.

Guests were invited to take a tour of the firm to see the stages of the production of its whisky, gin and vodka.

They were also treated to tastings and a barbecue.

Tastings included the distillery's new Explorer Gin, which is due to be launched in June on World Gin Day.

Paul Currie, managing director, said: "It's great to bring our founders together and celebrate. They are the ones who support our first production.

"Now the whisky is 14-15 months old and I'm delighted how it's coming out.

"We've had a brilliant start. Last week Time Out New York named us the best new distillery of the world."

About 300 people attended the day.

During the event, donations of £3,000 each were given to the Great North Air Ambulance, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and Fix The Fells.