THWAITES has appointed a new head brewer, Mark O’Sullivan, who has worked for the company for 15 years.

The 42-year-old is now looking to recruit an apprentice to follow in his footsteps.

Mr O’Sullivan temporarily took the reins of the operation at its new brewery at Sykes Holt, Mellor Brook, earlier this month after his predecessor Brian Yorston stepped down.

He has now been confirmed in the post of head brewer and is looking to strengthen his specialist team.

His appointment was announced as work started to prepare the iconic tower at Thwaites’ former base in Penny Street, Blackburn, for its final demolition.

Specialist contractor PP O’Connor will spend this week ensuring it can demolish the tall aluminium-clad structure which dominates the town’s skyline brick by brick safely when high-altitude equipment is brought on site next week.

Mr O’Sullivan said of his new appointment: “When I started working at the brewery I had so much respect for the head brewers, I really looked up to them.

“I always thought I would love that role and am delighted to have the chance to make the most of this dream position.”

Mr O’Sullivan will lead a team of brewers who, between them, have over 100 years of experience with Thwaites.

He said: “Working for a family business means a lot to us, especially because Thwaites has so much heritage.

“All four of us have been incredibly fortunate to learn our craft from four exceptionally experienced brewers over the years.

“Now someone else has a chance to come in and learn the ropes from the bottom up.

“We are looking forward to sharing all of our years of experience with a new apprentice.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for someone – not only will they get to work in a great industry but they will be able to gain a recognised qualification in a business with the 212-year heritage of Thwaites.”

“We have just launched our new beer range and it’s doing fantastically well. With volumes on the up we are in the process of investing to expand capacity.

“We will also shortly be unveiling new seasonal beers for the next year with a range of styles and flavours.”