Production of the most expensive pint of milk in the UK will be expanded after Hare Krishna farmers in Aldenham agreed a deal with a Kent dairy.

Ahimsa milk, costing £2.40 per litre, or £1.70 a pint, is currently produced at Bhaktivedanta Manor, in Hilfield Lane, Aldenham, but officials at the temple have penned a deal to increase production.

The Lotus Trust, which manages sales of the produce through its Ahimsa Milk Foundation, has agreed a deal with Commonwork Organic Dairy, in Kent, to produce more of the luxury white stuff.

Customers in Watford will be able to order the dear dairy straight to their door, via a subscription, when production begins in July.

The extraordinary produce costs more than double the price of organic milk due to the special treatment the pampered cows receive before and during milking.

The animals, considered holy by the Hare Krishna faith, are massaged during the process and scented candles and soothing music add to the calming atmosphere.

No animals are ever slaughtered, and elderly cows are given retirement to a sanctuary at approximately 13 years old, safe in the knowledge a pension scheme, derived from milk sales, will support them into their later years.

Approximately 65p from every litre sold goes towards the animal’s retirement fund, which covers hospice and vet costs.

Sita Rama das, director of the Lotus Trust, said: “It has been a lot of effort to get here and we’re happy to provide this service to the public. We are very excited about how this project will develop in the future.

“The Lotus Trust has been campaigning for better treatment of cows, and all money gained from this venture will be invested to promote care and better welfare for the animals.”

For more information visit www.ahimsamilk.org.