A CHEESEMAKER in the region has launched a speciality cheese to rival the continental bries.

Shepherd’s Purse has developed Bells Bluemin White, which has been developed to coincide with the North Yorkshire company’s 21st year in business.

The handmade runny cheese takes ten weeks to create, and is made with local cow’s milk in the Vale of York.

Bells Bluemin White is being launched into 19 of food and drink retailer Booths’ Northern stores, and is also being sold through Shepherd’s Purse’s wholesalers.

The cheese will be the first product to launch in the Thirsk company’s new packaging, featuring a refreshed logo and new imagery from across Yorkshire.