Box Steam Brewery has moved to new premises in Holt and is planning a series of events to introduce itself to its new neighbours.

The company, which was established in 2004 and employs 12, moved to its new brewery in The Midlands, Holt, because it has enjoyed a significant increase in business over the past two years.

National accounts director Kevin Newbold said: “The previous premises would have limited the growth of the company, but following the move we are really optimistic for what the future holds and feel the new brewery will help us build on our success.”

Beers from the brewery, which began in Ditteridge, next to Colerne airfield, have become popular internationally over the last few years, with their brand leader Tunnel Vision selling well in Canada.

Mr Newbold said: “It has been great expanding into export.

“I’d say about 20 per cent of business is international, 30 per cent national and the remaining 50 per cent local.

“We are looking into gradually expanding our local radius of delivery from 40 miles to around 50 miles later in the year.”

The brewery will host the first of a series of open days on Thursday, when 80s pop impresario and steam locomotive enthusiast Pete Waterman will officially open the new premises.

Mr Newbold said: “We are really happy to have Pete coming down.

“We got him through his link with the Great Western Railway Museum in Swindon and asked him to be our guest of honour when we were supporting an event he was at. Now we are just making sure the place is looking spick and span for the open day.

“I think we are going to be packed and we’ve been left thinking that we should have moved to an even bigger premises.

“It’s funny how many friends come forward when you are opening a brewery.”

On Friday, January 27 the brewery will hold an open day for Holt’s businesses and is planning a big event for the whole community in March.

Mr Newbold said: “We are very happy to be in Holt and pleased to be playing a part in the regeneration of the village.

“We are looking forward to being an active part of the community, whether that is by holding events or in the future providing employment.”

For more information visit www.boxsteambrewery.com.