Wild Turkey and Matthew McConaughey give thanks to 'Local Legends'

Bourbon brand Wild Turkey and its creative director Matthew McConaughey are celebrating and giving thanks to 'local legends' who have stepped up to help their communities during the Covid-19 pandemic.

These Local Legends, in the US and around the world, were recognised by Wild Turkey as part of its annual With Thanks campaign, which aims to give back to the communities it serves. 

As part of the global campaign Wild Turkey highlighted the work of The Drinks Trust in the UK. Since the pandemic began, it has given financial help to more than 4,000 workers in the drinks and hospitality industry, offered its support to wellbeing programmes for industry staff, and provided practical and vocational advice.

Wild Turkey gave its thanks to The Drinks Trust and bestowed on it the title of Local Legend in the UK.

Matthew McConaughey said: "The pandemic has affected all of us, so it feels more important than ever to recognise the unsung heroes who have consistently and steadfastly supported their neighbours and their communities."

Wild Turkey's master distiller, Eddie Russell, said: "It's often during the most challenging times that you see extraordinary acts of kindness and a commitment to help those in need. Wild Turkey was founded on community and we're grateful to work with Matthew to celebrate and lift up those who go above and beyond for their hometowns." 

Ross Carter, CEO of The Drinks Trust, said: "We are honoured to be recognised as 'Local Legends' by Wild Turkey. Here at The Drinks Trust, we hold community close to our hearts too and we believe that nobody should be left behind during times of hardship and need. Our work wouldn't have been possible without the overwhelming support of drinks companies, donors and fundraisers, without whom we couldn't have helped so many individuals in need. 

"These joint efforts really exemplify the spirit of the drinks and hospitality sector, demonstrating how the industry supports its own community, and for this we are immensely grateful."

Campari, which owns Wild Turkey, launched its 'Shaken Not Broken' fund in April this year to support front-line workers in the hospitality industry affected by Covid-19. Created in collaboration with The Drinks Trust and TiPJAR in response to the financial hardship suffered by many hospitality workers, Campari launched the fund with a £100,000 donation.

A Wild Turkey spokesperson added: "It's an honour to support our partners and collaborators. This year has been tough for everyone and it's organisations like The Drinks Trust that assist our trade family and our Wild Turkey advocates in times of need - the lifeblood of our industry. The Drinks Trust played a key role in sustaining business as well as morale throughout 2020, which is very important, and they provided services and assistance to those in their community who needed it - to that, we raise a glass and say 'cheers' and 'thank you'."

24 November 2020 - Bethany Whymark