The expansion of the Irish distilling sector continues apace. Today (Thursday) sees the sod-turning for a new facility in Bagenalstown, Co Carlow, by Walsh Whiskey.

The new €25m facility in the appropriately named location of Royal Oak will distil and age the Irishman and Writers Tears brands.

Distributors from a dozen countries, including the USA, Canada and Russia, will be along for the ocasion.

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The Royal Oak estate is built around Holloden House, a listed 18th century country home on the banks of the River Barrow.

Walsh Whiskey will restore and include Hollden as part of the visitor centre facilities that are part of the investment.