THE Waen Brewery in Llanidloes has sadly closed its doors.

Brewery co-founder and director Sue (the Brew) Hayward posted a heartfelt message to her countless supporters on Facebook, explaining the difficult decision.

She said: “It is with regret but also enthusiasm I have to announce that I will cease brewing at our lovely brewery in Llanidloes.”

Ms Hayward said there are numerous reasons for the closure, including outside commitments, dedication to quality and competing low cost brews.

“I have decided to keep everything in balance I cannot keep running the brewery on a day-to-day basis and actively participating in the broader community, an activity I’m enjoying more and more and to this end I have decided to close the brewery,” she added.

County councillor for Llanidloes, Gareth Morgan is saddened to see the brewery go.

He said: “I believe they have a very good product and they supply one of the main local restaurants, the Old Mill. I am very sad, it is a blow for Llanidloes.

“It is such a competitive market with multi-national companies, it makes it difficult.

“When you have got a company producing something so unique and special, that is something worth preserving. I wish them well.”

The brewery started its journey in 2009, when Sue Hayward and husband John Martin began brewing in Newtown.

Over the next seven years, the brewery migrated to Llanidloes and won several notable accolades, including: Gold and Silver medals in the SIBA Wales and West Competition and qualifying for the 2015 National Championships.

Followers and fans of Waen Brewery’s products will be pleased to know that the most popular brews will remain available thanks to Sue and John’s contacts and friends in the industry.

Thanks are also sent to Hermia, Oscar and Paul for the dedication and help they provided.

For more on the brewery, its history, awards and products visit thewaenbrewery.co.uk or find them on Facebook