A STALWART of Keighley's Timothy Taylor brewery has retired after more than 31 years with the company.

Oxenhope resident Peter Eells stepped down as head brewer in autumn last year, but until his final day last Friday was continuing to serve as production director.

A spokesman for the brewery thanked Mr Eells for his huge contribution to the firm. She added that he would now have more time to indulge his passion for amateur photography.

In recognition of his hobby he was given a scanner as a leaving present.

Mr Eells attended a company leaving party at Keighley Golf Club on April 8. He was also at a second farewell function, mainly for suppliers and other people he had worked with, which was staged at Steeton Hall on April 13.

He began his career by gaining a scholarship from the Brewer’s Society to study brewing at Heriot Watt University in Edinburgh.

After finishing his studies he secured a job with Young’s Brewery in London, then six years later joined Boddington’s as assistant brewer.

He was taken on by Timothy Taylor's in 1984 where he became head brewer in 1995.

The business won many industry prizes during his long tenure, including Boltmaker winning CAMRA Supreme Champion Beer of Britain 2014.