Long-established wine merchant Connolly’s has signed a PR contract to raise its profile ahead of Christmas.

The company, which has shops in the city centre and Solihull, has agreed a short-term deal with the Birmingham Mail’s former food and drink writer Paul Fulford.

Company owner Chris Connolly said: “These are exciting times in Birmingham, with so much happening and it is a level of change which is matched by the global wine industry. Scarcely a day goes by without me tasting something really impressive. I have had 35 years in this game and never been as excited. We want to ensure that people are fully aware of the fantastic range of wines, craft beers and spirits that we can provide.

“We are an independent company and our team have more than 100 years’ experience in the wine trade between them, so we are able to offer great advice and wines to suit every pocket.”

Connolly’s Wine Merchants has been family-owned and run since 1976 and sells to the public and the licensed trade.

It has stores in Livery Street, in the Jewellery Quarter, and Dovehouse Parade, Solihull.

Mr Fulford left the Birmingham Post & Mail in July to pursue other interests after more than 20 years as a journalist.