News / Cider

Fifth-generation cidermaker appointed a new Thatchers director

By Milan Perera  Tuesday Jul 2, 2024

The story began in 1904 when William Thatcher began making cider at Myrtle Farm in Somerset. A new enterprise was born – Thatchers Cider.

Fast forward 120 years and Martin Thatcher, great grandson of William proudly looks back at the family legacy of cider craft.

Now, it is time for the fifth generation to step up to the challenge, with Martin’s daughter Eleanor Thatcher being appointing to the board of directors in the family-run cider firm.

Better Business
Better Business is an initiative launched by Bristol24/7 to help businesses thrive, whilst creating a positive impact on Bristol and the people who live here.

Eleanor is said to embody the values and traditions of the 120-year-old company while also bringing a fresh perspective to cider making, sustainability and innovation.

Her passion revolves around protecting the environment and ensuring the sustainability of the business for future generations, reducing Thatchers’ carbon footprint and protecting biodiversity.

“My role now is to continue what my family has built; making great quality cider, in harmony with nature, for another 120 years,” said Eleanor Thatcher

Eleanor said she was “honoured” to join the board of directors at Thatchers.

“Working in a family business is very special for me; it’s about remembering and cherishing our history whilst at the same time innovating.

“I have a passion for cider making and I care deeply about Thatchers continuing to make high quality cider that our customers love, whilst also ensuring that we protect the environment for future generations.

“My role now is to continue what my family has built; making great quality cider, in harmony with nature, for another 120 years.”

Martin said: “I feel very proud to head up a family business, one that I am delighted to say is fast becoming a fifth-generation cider business.

Thatchers cider has been made on Myrtle Farm since 1904 – photo: Thatchers

“I see it as my duty to ensure when the time is right, I hand down a business that is able to thrive both now and in the future.

“Eleanor’s appointment brings with it her unique blend of tradition and innovation.

“Her dedication to our family’s heritage, combined with her forward-thinking approach, makes her an invaluable addition and one I believe will keep us making the best ciders in the world for decades to come.”

While not overseeing the cider press, Eleanor plays for a local hockey team and is actively involved with the Young Farmers club.

All photos: Thatchers Cider

Read next:

Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
I want to receive (tick as many as you want):
I'm interested in (for future reference):
Marketing Permissions

Bristol24/7 will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing. Please let us know all the ways you would like to hear from us:

We will only use your information in accordance with our privacy policy, which can be viewed here - main-staging.bristol247.com/privacy-policy/ - you can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at meg@bristol247.com. We will treat your information with respect.


We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

Related articles

You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Independent journalism
is needed now More than ever
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Join the Better
Business initiative
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
* prices do not include VAT
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Enjoy delicious local
exclusive deals
You've read %d articles this month
Consider becoming a member today
Wake up to the latest
Get the breaking news, events and culture in your inbox every morning