A UNIQUE gin shop which captures the spirit of Ulverston’s lupine past has officially opened its doors to the public.

Wolftown offers a range of locally-made spirits and beers from the new shop in Market Square at the heart of Ulverston town centre.

Wolftown Gin was developed by John McKeown, who works as a professional TV cameraman covering major sporting events.

Mr McKeown first showcased Wolftown Gin at Ulverston Dickensian Festival last November.

After this, Mr McKeown felt inspired to open up a shop which showcased his range of different styles of gin.

He said: “I really like the food and drink sector.

"I love flavour and trying new things so decided to launch a gin company.

“What’s different about Wolftown Gin is that it’s made with the soft drink, Sarsaparilla, which Barrovians know very well.

“That’s the key ingredient which makes the flavour different.”

The name of the gin is inspired by the etymology of Ulverston’s name, which is derived from the Norse world ulfarr – meaning wolf warrior – and tun, meaning farm or homestead.

Mr McKeown said he ‘saw an opportunity’ when the shop became available.

“I wasn’t actually looking at moving into a shop but it was too good of an opportunity to miss,” he said.

“It was right on the square and seemed like the perfect time to branch out.

“We wanted to promote the gin for those that aren’t on social media and want to come in and sample it.”

Wolftown sells Wolftown’s classic London Dry Gin, toffee vodka from Newby Bridge, rum from Cartmel, beef jerky from Bardsea and a range of their own tonics.

During lockdown, the business has also been making up gin gift boxes made to order.

Mr McKeown said yesterday’s shop opening went ‘really well’.

“There were a lot of people interested and intrigued in the new shop,” he said.

Wolftown is open Thursday to Saturday every week.