ARKELL’S Brewery is taking a more ‘hands on’ approach in supporting its licensees – and to that end has created a new post.

The Kingsdown-based brewery, which celebrates its 170th anniversary next month, has appointed Craig Titchener to the new role of tenanted director. Mr Titchener was previously managed house director.

He first began working for the company as a landlord, before moving to the brewery eight years ago to take over the managed houses.

“I am delighted to take over responsibility for our tenanted pubs,” he said.

“Family breweries are unique in being able to wipe away the managerial layers of so many of the bigger pub companies and support our landlords directly.”

They have also announced that Julie Moss, who has been a landlord with the business for more than 10 years, will take responsibility for the brewery’s managed estate as managed house controller.

She has most recently been at The Sun Inn, at Coate Water, and previously at The White Hart, at Whitchurch, Hampshire.

Her husband Andy will continue to run The Sun.

Mrs Moss said: “From my own experience, a strong and regular communication with the brewery really helps landlords to offer the best pub environment and service possible.

“I am looking forward to using my own experience to support all our pub managers.

Brewery director George Arkell said it was important the company gave landlords everything they needed to succeed.

“With their years of running our pubs, Craig and Julie have both the respect of our tenants, the credibility and the knowledge to support them better than anyone else.”

To celebrate their anniversary, the brewery is holding an anniversary open day and beer festival on September 7, from noon.

Tickets are £5 and available from the brewery or by calling 01793 823026. Proceeds go to Arkell’s two nominated charities, Prospect Hospice and Swindon Cares.

Tickets are also available for a brewhouse tour, at £5. Advance booking is advised.