GIN lovers were treated to a talk and a tipple when Calne’s very own gin expert filled the room with his knowledge.

David Hitchens, of the New Wine Shop put his knowledge to the test when he talked through the different types of gins to inquisitive guests at Marden House on Saturday evening, raising money for the Friends of St Mary’s, who are constantly raising funds to keep the only Grade I listed building in Calne in working order.

Chair of FOSM, Alison Hawes, said: “It went extremely well, the room was buzzing, everyone really enjoyed it.

“People are already asking, when are we going to do the next one?"

Mr Hitchens, said: "What I have found is that gin has really taken off and we don't understand why.

"I explained and showed how with different gins you need different amounts of tonic in them.

"I got them to practice so they could get a real sense of how the tonic changes the different gins and garnishes."

His book, The Gin Sat Nav is available from the New Wine Shop and Amazon.