The makers of Buckfast Tonic Wine have hit out at Easter eggs which have gone on sale emblazoned with its brand logo.

J. Chandler & Co, which bottles and distributes the drink, said the chocolate egg “is not one of our products and is not authorised by us.”

Insisting it does not engage in any activity that promotes its products to children and young people, the company added in a strongly-worded statement: “We are taking the necessary action to have the products removed to ensure the protection of the public.”

“We strongly advise the public not to purchase,” the maker added.

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The move comes days after an off-licence in Northern Ireland, d-Bee’s, announced it was launching a line of Buckfast Easter eggs.

Reducing the products from £10.99 to £9.99, the box contains a 140g Nestle chocolate egg, mini Buckfast bottle, d-Bee’s pen, lighter, and magnet, all with Buckfast logos displayed.

News of the chocolate egg spread quickly, so much so that the website reportedly crashed as thousands of buyers flocked to the site to place orders from across the world.

Glasgow Times:

However, the makers of the tonic wine have been left with a bitter taste in their mouths.

In the complete statement, issued by Stewart Wilson, sales manager of J. Chandler & Co, the public has been told: “The Easter egg products that are currently being advertised for sale in Northern Ireland and elsewhere in the UK have not been authorised or instigated by our company.

“We are aware of numerous media outlets covering this story.

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“As an alcoholic drinks manufacturer we take our responsibilities very seriously.

“Our products are for adults and we do not engage in any activity that promotes our products, either directly or indirectly, to children and young people.

“We do not manufacture or advertise any confectionery items.

“Customers are advised not to purchase these Easter eggs and we are taking the necessary action to have the products removed to ensure the protection of the public.”

In its original online ad, d-Bee’s did add: “As an offsales, we only sell to over 18s and the box clear states not for under 18s [sic].”

“This is designed to be a novelty ADULT present. Enjoy,” it added.