JOBS are at risk at one of East Lancashire’s best-known breweries.

Moorhouse’s Brewery in Burnley said five posts are under threat as part of a ‘business restructuring’.

The Accrington Road-based brewer said the shake-up was needed to ‘meet the challenges of today’s dynamic beer market’.

The proposed restructure mean the brewer has begun consultation on five jobs at risk for the 33-strong team across packaging, distribution, telesales and finance/administration.

A company spokesman said the move aimed to establish a cost base in line with market conditions and create a culture of flexible working across the business with a stronger focus on the North West beer market.

Managing director Lee Williams said: “If we are to secure a long-term business here in Burnley we need to bring our cost base into line with the market and adapt in all areas as to what today’s customers and consumers want from a beer supplier. Regrettably, these changes we’ve announced are necessary to meet our business aims.”

Mr Williams added: “Having said this restructure is about the future, we are acutely aware of the need for us to consult the staff affected and we will be working closely with them over the coming days and weeks.”

Mr Williams was appointed in April this year with a brief to modernise the Moorhouse’s brand.

He had enjoyed successful periods at Thwaites and Marston’s where he played big roles in the success of beers such as Wainwright and 13 Guns.

At the time executive chairman Ian Parkinson said: “Lee’s appointment is our commitment to fully develop our potential in what is today a very dynamic and exciting beer market.

“Lee will be charged with delivering commercial success and establishing Moorhouse’s as a modern, contemporary beer brewer.”