A NEW gin bar and distillery has officially opened at the Waterfront thanks to the hard work of a family-run Black Country business.

Netherton-based gin distillers Dr Eamer’s unveiled their self-titled bar at the Waterfront today, Monday, October 14.

The venture is the first of its kind in the Waterfront and was officially opened by the Mayor of Dudley, councillor David Stanley and his consort councillor Anne Millward.

Entrepreneur and founder Jordan Lunn worked in sales after finishing university but decided nearly two years ago to give up his job and focus on his passion for distilling.

The 34-year-old is following in his family's footsteps by launching the bar as he hails from a line of brewers and distillers.

Jordan said: "Making beer and spirits at home is something I’ve done as a hobby for a long time. My great grandfather was a brewer, my great uncle a distiller and my mother ran pubs all her life, so I think I was destined to follow suit.

"After giving up work, I bought an old caravan, kitted it out and used it to sell the gin I made at home at festivals and events but with the gin industry booming, I couldn’t keep up with the demand from local wine merchants and bars.

"Last year I took the plunge and opened my own distilling company, the West Midlands Distillery, in Netherton and never looked back. Opening Dr Eamer’s is the next step in the venture and it’s great to sell the products I make directly to the customers."

The bar will showcase local produce, including 'Black Country tapas' which will feature pork pies handmade in Netherton and locally brewed ales.

Jordan hopes the bar, which will employ eight people, will attract people looking for a night out without having to travel further afield.

He added: "We want to create an environment where local couples and friends can get together without having to travel to Birmingham. We’re really pleased to be part of the growing community at the Waterfront and excited about what the future holds."

Councillor David Stanley, the Mayor of Dudley, said: "It was an honour to officially open Dr Eamer’s today. Since the enterprise launched, the Waterfront has seen 42 new businesses open, with more to come soon, breathing new life into the area.

"This new gin distillery is a wonderful addition and I wish Jordan and all the team the best of luck in this new venture."

Dr Eamer's will be open from Monday to Sunday, from noon to 11pm and can be found in units 20-21 at Waterfront East.