A POPULAR pub could soon be brewing its own ale, thanks to a grant from East Lindsey District Council.
The council has awarded £50,000 from its Rural Development Fund to Old Nick's Tavern, Horncastle, a popular live music venue.
Landlord Ross Ellis and his wife Sally will use the money, alongside their own, to develop a fully operational micro brewery at the rear of the pub, creating the town's own branded ales and ciders.
The project will also help to create one full-time and two part-time jobs.
In 2011, the District Council announced it would be putting £1.5 million aside to support projects that increase investment; create or safeguard local employment; support the development of new business; attract additional visitors or increase the number of people involved in training or business development.
Ross explained: "This grant will allow us to expand the business with additional employment in both brewing and tourism. 'Horncastle Ales' will give the town a point of reference attracting visitors whilst complimenting the other excellent businesses in town with additional footfall that comes from having a small independent accessible micro-brewery.
"We are delighted that we can see the completion to a very demanding project that will benefit everyone connected to Horncastle and Old Nicks Tavern, the new 'Brew Pub' in town that will offer locals and visitors alike a selection of quality ales and the chance to book a day or to come and see how the micro brewery functions. "
The portfolio Holder for Economic Development at the district council, Councillor Craig Leyland, said: "I'm pleased we've been able to support Old Nicks Tavern in Horncastle, whose plans for a brewery will not only benefit the local community but see the creation of new jobs.
"By supporting local businesses through the Rural Development Fund we believe we can make a real difference to the economy in East Lindsey and help businesses to turn their ambitions into reality. I wish them every success."
Local communities and organisations still have the chance to apply for the funding by submitting expression of interests to the Council. Grants of up to £50,000 are made available for each project, which must demonstrate economic benefit to the District. For more information, visit www.e-lindsey.gov.uk/ruraldevelopmentfund or contact the Economic Regeneration team on 01507 613113.
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