BUSINESSMAN James Hudson is hoping his latest venture will pack a real punch with the public - introducing a new drink on to the British market.

He discovered Cane Spirit, a 40 per cent proof drink distilled from cane sugar, while in South Africa where it is a top seller.

And from his base in York, Mr Hudson, 23, hopes to make the clear, sweet liquid into a winner in the UK too.

His company Lock Stock Trading is behind the design and production of the innovative sachets in which Cane Spirit is sold in this country.

He plans to introduce the drink, in clear plastic, pocket-sized packs, to a wider market.

"It makes for more cost effective transportation and storing - and it's handy for the consumer too," he said.

"Cane Spirit is great when mixed with orange or cola or in cocktails. It's a novel drink in striking packaging so it will be a hit with the younger market too."

James, a Loughborough University graduate, is very aware he is taking on multi-national companies that have millions to spend on new product launches.

He said: "I don't have their budget so it's a bit of a David and Goliath scenario."

He has won backing from the Harrogate-based Yorkshire Organisation of Business Angels, which is made up of successful business people who support new entrepreneurs looking to expand.

Accountant Peter Smith agreed to invest in the company and become one of Lock Stock Trading's directors.

He said; "When we test-marketed it here everyone loved it - particularly the 18-to-25-year age group who like the new, trendy packaging."