THE RICH heritage of Droitwich Salt has been highlighted as part of a campaign to showcase Worcestershire’s food and drink scene.
As some may know, the ‘wich’ in Droitwich actually means salt. This showcases the rich history of the town’s relationship with salt and brine from the Bronze Age through to the mid-19th century.
The town would attract the Romans and received prestigious international and even Royal recognition. Years later, fifth generation Droitwich farmers decided to use their fascination for the history of Droitwish Salt to revive the product.
Will Kerton, owner of present day Droitwich Salt, jumped at the chance to revive the tradition when the idea was mooted by the town council. Him, his wife, Gillian, and her dad were keen to get involved so learnt more about its heritage, the brine’s purity and unique taste of salt and were fully on board with restarting production.
The family’s farm is located just three miles from the historic pumphouse where they collect their brine. They had space on their farm to add salt tunnels and now have the infrastructure to transport, produce and package the product in house.
Will is heartened by the history of Droitwich Salt being the main reason Romans settled in the area. The salt was also given a Royal Charter by King John in 1215 and it went on to become a huge industry in the 19th century, putting the town on the map.
Today Droitwich’s brine springs are thought to be some of the purest (and oldest – circa 200 million years old) springs in the world, creating the intensely flavoured and smooth salt everyone knows and loves.
The family’s salt products have now become recognised nationally through various awards and usage by popular and renowned chefs.
Will Kerton said: “We’re proud to be based in Worcestershire and to be involved in this campaign. Keeping things local and supporting local businesses is something we are really passionate about.”
