CORKS are popping for one Warrington wine merchant this week with the news that it has won the national contract to supply the world renowned Orient Express with Boizel Champagne.

Woolston-based Gerrard Seel Ltd has been supplying quality wines to restaurants and company dining rooms since 1984.

Initially specialising in supplying fine Burgundy, Gerrard Seel's catalogue now covers most wine growing regions in the world.

Roger Barlow, managing director of Gerrard Seel, said: "We are delighted to be awarded this contract and to be the catalyst in linking two such high quality operations together.

"It's full steam ahead now for Champagne Boizel."

Champagne Boizel is one of the largest family-owned brands from the Champagne region of France.

Its connection with the UK is long and it has an extensive association with some of the UK's more prestigious events, such as Glyndebourne and the Henley Regatta.

Now, thanks to the Warrington wine suppliers, its fame will spread further as it is supped on board one of the most famous trains in the world. Andrew Overton, general manager UK trains of the Orient Express, said: "We are absolutely delighted, after a long and gruelling trial with some of the greatest champagne houses in the world in the frame."