MOBBERLEY Brewhouse has revealed its plans for a craft beer bar in Knutsford.

The independent brewery is currently transforming the former Tap and Bottle micropub and former Shed juice bar into a tap room called Project 53 in Minshull Street.

Described as a first point of sale for Mobberley Brewhouse and a celebration of all things craft beer and gin, it is set to open in August following a significant period of growth for the business in 2017.

Around half of the beers on draught will be from Mobberley while the remainder will be guest beers from friends of the business.

James Roberts, owner and head brewer and a former Mobberley Primary School pupil said: “There will be no competition between the craft beers we have on offer, it will just all be great beer.

"The knowledge and passion of all our staff will be what makes it special. Customers want personal recommendations on the beers, and that’s what we can offer.”

The name Project 53 comes from its latitudinal position of 53 degrees north on the map.

In addition to craft beer and gin, Project 53 will also offer drinkers a selection of wine, cider and spirits. There will be regular live music too.

James, 27, one of the UK's youngest brewery owners, is also working on a second Project 53 tap room in Stockport.

And to support growth plans, another family member is getting on board. James' sister Sophie Roberts, 24, joins the business as operations director.

Sophie, who has a background in marketing, added: “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of operations director for Project 53.

"Ever since James started the Mobberley Brewhouse business in 2011, I have been involved in one way or another. It’s great to finally formalise my involvement in the business and I am really excited about our plans for the future.”

Mobberley Brewhouse also invested in a canning line earlier this year which has allowed the team to ramp up production to up to 25,000 cans a week.

The brewery runs a membership scheme but it is not yet known what benefits, if any, members will have at the bar.