The Mousetrap Theatre – Introducing Rupert Holloway
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The Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival takes place this year on 10th and 11th September and is one of the town’s biggest annual events. With its humble beginnings in 1999, the Cheese Festival has grown to become the festival we know today. Here at Harts of Sturwe are proud to be sponsoring the Mousetrap theatre. Over the two day festival we have some great cooking demonstrations and fun events for you to enjoy. Leading up to this great event, we will be introducing each of our guest demonstrators that will be appearing on stage at the Mousetrap Theatre.
About Rupert
Rupert is the owner and distiller of Conker Spirit based in Bournemouth, Dorset. Well known for their Dorset Dry Conker Gin. Rupert left a career as a Chartered Surveyor in 2014 to start the company and now refers to himself as ‘Head Conkerer’ and is accompanied by his friend and colleague Fred. 
Tell us a little bit about Conker Spirit?
We are Conker Spirit, Dorset’s first gin distillery, nestled in the sandy backstreets of Bournemouth. We distil our award winning Dorset Dry Gin in tiny 60 bottle batches. Here we are the distillers and the bottle labellers. We are even the botanical foragers, also hand picking New Forest gorse flowers destined for our copper pot still. The Dorset Dry can be defined by the flavours of the beautiful County of Dorset, incorporating the fresh Dorset notes of marsh samphire, elderberries and handpicked New Forest gorse flowers. This brings bright and refreshing lighter notes to Conker, meaning you’ll be surprised to find yourself happily sipping Conker straight over ice, giving you sweet, sour, bitter and dry all in one delicious package, taking you on a fantastic journey.
Can you tell us what you enjoy about the Cheese festival?
We love exhibiting at the Cheese Festival, it’s got such a great vibe and everyone seems so happy! Is that the cheese talking?! We had a great weekend last year, even running out of gin halfway through the first day. It turns out gin and cheese are the perfect partner!
What is your favourite Cheese?
Cheese plays a very important role in the life of a Conkerer. It’s hard to pick out a favourite, however you can’t beat a wedge of Halloumi on the BBQ - perfect in a burger with a grilled pineapple ring!
What would your ideal job be if you weren't doing what you are now?
That’s a tricky one too, as we have only just left our day jobs to work for ourselves in a job we love! That said, I would also love to be paid to fly a Spitfire!
When and Where?
You will be able to see Rupert and Fred on stage at the Mousetrap Theatre on Sunday 11th September at 2pm. Please come along and we hope you enjoy the Cheese Festival.