He became the toast of Holywood thanks to his starring role in the series Outlander.
Now the actor Sam Heughan is looking to be drinking in the success, once more, this time as co-founder of Galloway Distillery.
He was on hand last week to celebrate the success of South of Scotland’s businesses and communities at a star-studded event at the Scottish Parliament.
The Scots star joined dozens of inspiring local businesses including the Ethical Dairy, Stranraer Development Trust, Iron and Pine, All Roads Lead to Whithorn, D&G Life Magazine as well as Robert Burns Ellisland Farm and Museum, at a reception organised by South of Scotland Enterprise.
Local lad Sam spoke at the event, reflecting on growing up in Galloway and, now, being part of the local business community thanks to his links with the distillery, based in Newton Stewart.
The reception, attended by local constituency MSP Finlay Carson, marked the fifth anniversary of SOSE – the region’s economic and community development agency which has helped create and safeguard more than 10,000 jobs in the region.
An example of this was announced earlier when a near £1 million investment was provided to Dumfries and Galloway-based The Carbon Removers to support their ambitions to become a £1 billion company.
Sam told guests: “There was never any question for me where I would open a distillery – no matter how far I go, Scotland and Galloway will always be my home.
“So it really is incredible to return to a place abundant with ambition, drive and opportunity, giving us the chance to add to what is already there.
“To shine a light, not only on ourselves but all the other businesses in the South of Scotland.”
The Galloway and West Dumfries MSP was in total agreement, adding: “I find it an enormous privilege to be representing one of the most beautiful and resourceful areas in Scotland.
“Businesses in Dumfries and Galloway have come a long way and it is important that their incredible achievements are recognised and celebrated.
“Hopefully this trend will continue in the coming months and bring prosperity and many more employment opportunities to encourage young people, in particular, to remain and make their homes here.”
