A LEGENDARY actor dropped into Whitehaven this week. 

James Cosmo, was at Richardson's of Whitehaven on Friday, December 8, to meet fans and promote his whisky 'Storyman.'

James Cosmo starred in the hit show Game of Thrones as Jeor Mormont and has also starred in much-loved films including Braveheart, Trainspotting, Highlander, and Narnia. 

He has a real passion for whisky and decided to partner with Annandale Distillery to create his brand. 

The distillery's website says: "Storyman is a true tale of taste that taps into a genuine, unmet need of ‘interested explorers’ – a whisky from a wise mentor, that brings people together in conversation.

"Made in small batches to perfect its characteristically smooth and well-rounded flavour, it’s a whisky that’s both satisfyingly complex and can be enjoyed by everyone."

James Cosmo also shared a few words about the product. He said: "Myself and Annandale Distillery developed this whisky. 

"It's taken us about three and a bit years to bring it to market and the special thing about it is that, in blind tastes, it's come out on top compared to blended whiskies that cost four times as much.

"There's over 70 per cent of single malts blended in that so it's incredibly high quality, a lovely, smooth, sipping whisky... and a beautiful afterglow to it. 

"There's a small bit of smokiness in the back but not enough to affect anything. In my mind and although it's part of my business, I consider it to be the best blended whisky in the world. 

"It is the best and most people seem to agree."

Gerard Richardson who owns Richardson's of Whitehaven was delighted to welcome James to the store. 

Customers were queueing outside of the shop for a chance to meet the star. 

James' visit was accompanied by the Christmas markets in St Nicholas' Gardens and later in the day a fireworks display was held on the harbourside. 

The fireworks display originally took place in 2022 but due to its success, it has returned for another year.