A former St Ives man has become managing director of the famous Tiptree jam-maker in Essex, Wilkin & Sons. Walter Scott attended the Abbey Grammar School, in Ramsey, before reading food science at Nottingham University. As a graduate trainee he was employ

A former St Ives man has become managing director of the famous Tiptree jam-maker in Essex, Wilkin & Sons.

Walter Scott attended the Abbey Grammar School, in Ramsey, before reading food science at Nottingham University. As a graduate trainee he was employed by Cadbury Schweppes, his jam-making career developed in another company where he was appointed production director making jams and marmalades, before joining Wilkin & Sons in 1985.

Formerly production director, Mr Scott was appointed managing director yesterday, January 1.

He joined the company as factory manager, taking up his production role in 1992, with overall control for the range of 100 products made at the Tiptree jam factory.

"We have always ensured that the quality, the taste and the traditional methods of production remain constant," he said. "In the last 20 years there has been a remarkable increase in volume and we have expanded the ranges of jams, marmalades, sauces and Christmas puddings to meet UK and overseas demands".