ENTERPRISING students at the Royal Agricultural University who are behind the success of real ale and cider makers Muddy Wellies, were the toast of the local business community at the Cirencester Chamber of Commerce Business Awards.

Muddy Wellies, which is a student-led social enterprise project, picked up the Young Enterprise of The Year award. Judges described them as “a team of young business people who show commitment and enthusiasm for a growing business and brand.”

Muddy Wellies started life in 2006 and is run through the university’s entrepreneurs society. The brand continues to expand and has an original and golden ale, as well as a cider.

Muddy Wellies has also just produced a new ale, Hedgehog. New students come on board each year to get real business experience and revenue is re-invested into a fund to allow students to test out their own business ideas.

Outgoing president of the entrepreneurs society Sophie O’Meara, 21, has been involved with Muddy Wellies for a few years. “The team was absolutely thrilled to win the award,” she said. “It was so nice to be recognised for all the hard work.

“Muddy Wellies has been absolutely amazing. The beauty of it is it is so real world. I have been involved in every aspect including visiting the brewery and it has given me so much confidence.”