AN INDEPENDENT Scotch whisky distiller in Alexandria has agreed a five-year partnership with the organisers of the Open Golf Championship for its Loch Lomond Whiskies brand.

The Loch Lomond group’s deal with The R&A includes support of the Ricoh’s Women’s British Open and means the distiller’s range of malts will become the Spirit of the Open.

Loch Lomond Whiskies was founded in 1814 but can trace its roots back to the Littlemill distillery which was established in 1771 and is thought to be one of the oldest in the world.

Its current malt and grain distilleries in Alexandria were built in the 1960s.

Colin Matthews, CEO of Loch Lomond Group, said: “We are extremely proud to have agreed this prestigious partnership and association with the R&A.

“There is an incredibly strong alignment between the worlds of whisky and golf, two of Scotland’s most iconic gifts to the world.

“There is also a great fit between those who follow golf and whisky, with research showing clearly that many golfers across the world enjoy a regular dram.

“Our partnership with the R&A is the perfect means for Loch Lomond Whiskies to use the fabulous platforms of both championships to grow further, both in the UK and internationally, and it also demonstrates our strong commitment and ambition to becoming a premium global brand.”