A LOCAL butcher has turned down a lucrative approach from a major UK supermarket chain to stock their products.

Family-run McCaskie's in Wemyss Bay rebuffed the offer from the multi-national to focus on supply directly to its customer base and the independent sector.

Owner Nigel Ovens said: “Consumers go to independent butchers for high quality produce and service, so while a tie-up with the supermarket would have brought our products to a wider market, we are delighted to hold firm with our philosophy."

The potential deal with the chain – which can't be being named for commercial reasons – would have seen McCaskie’s supply their haggis, black pudding, bacon and pies to stores across the UK.

Founded in 1935 by Mearns T. McCaskie, the business is now run by his daughter Elizabeth Ovens and grandson Nigel and his wife Helen.

McCaskie’s also supplies a select number of Scotland's most highly regarded hotels and restaurants, including two-star Michelin Restaurant Andrew Fairlie.