A REFRESHING business founded after an incredible adventure is aiming to be a hit in Europe.

Having secured a £1.2 million boost from crowdfunding, sales of Actiph Water boomed during the coronavirus pandemic.

Founded by North Berwick’s Jamie Douglas-Hamilton – son of Lord Selkirk of Douglas, former Minister of State for Scotland James Douglas-Hamilton – Actiph Water is the first alkaline ionised bottled water to be launched, and made, in the UK.

It is produced by purifying natural spring water, adding electrolytes, then supercharging by ionisation.

Ionised water is proven in clinical trials to hydrate faster than ordinary water.

Jamie said: “Since launching in 2017, we have experienced 300 per cent year-on-year growth and doubled our distribution in the last nine months.

“Raising £1.2 million means we have now built a loyal community of Actiphists and can realise our dream of transforming Actiph into a global lifestyle brand and become one of the top three players in the USA and the leading alkaline water in Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific.”

“It is through expeditions like the one we completed in December, which was the first human powered crossing of the Drake Passage from South America to Antarctica, that we intend to inspire and energise our community to live an active boundless life.”

Winner of the Great British Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2018 and a seven-time Guinness World Record holder, Jamie created the business after his world record-breaking row across the Indian Ocean.

After realising that fresh water mixed with salt water is more hydrating than fresh water alone, the former Belhaven Hill School pupil started a quest to produce the healthiest and most effective water possible.

After securing more than £1 million through crowdfunding, Actiph plans to continue leading the growth of alkaline waters across Europe and the Middle East, helped by its strong foundations built in the UK.

Liz Truss MP, International Trade Secretary, said: “Actiph is a great example of the power of e-commerce, which continues to play an intrinsic role in keeping businesses afloat during these unprecedented times.”