THE closing of production lines has caused a "nightmare" for bosses at Buckfast tonic wine - sparking fears stores could be left without the drink.

We told you last month how the firm ceased production "with immediate effect" during the pandemic following government guidelines.

Buckfast, which was originally made by monks at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, is popular among some within the West of Scotland. 

And now, sales manages Stewart Wilson told the Scottish Sun that most of their wholesalers are "out of stock" - with fears stores could run dry.

He added: “We’re not completely out of stock but the problem is that because production line is closed there’s no facility to move that product about.

“It’s a bit of a nightmare but you’ve got to follow guidelines.”

READ MORE: Buckfast closes production 'with immediate effect' during pandemic

The decision to cease production was "not taken lightly", according to bosses at the firm.

A statement last month read: "Given the unprecedented Covid-19 situation, we wanted to take time to update you on our position.

"With immediate effect our offices and production lines will temporarily close, this decision was not taken lightly, however we must act on the Governments advice.

"Our safety and wellbeing of our employees, and the wider community is of the utmost importance.

"We must play our part in helping to protect our NHS by asking our employees to stay at home. 

"With the temporary closure, our distribution network will be freed up to play it’s part in delivering vital essential commodities across the United Kingdom at this time.

"Our production will commence as soon as we can. Thank you for your understanding."

----------------------------------------------------------------

Shops are closing. Newspaper sales are falling. But we’ve chosen to keep our coverage of the Coronavirus crisis free because it’s so important that the people of Glasgow stay informed during this difficult time.

To help us get through this, we’re asking readers who can afford it to contribute either £3, £5 or £8 a month to the Glasgow Times.

If you choose to sign up, we’ll also take away all the adverts – and deliver a digital version of the print paper to your device. Click here to help Save Your Times: www.glasgowtimes.co.uk/subscribe