The future of a brewery has been secured after it was bought back by its founder.

Nethergate Brewery, based in The Street, Pentlow, had been placed in the hands of administrators last month after its previous owner was forced to retire due to ill-health.

But after months of uncertainty, Dick Burge, who co-founded the brewery in 1986, announced this week he is leading a consortium which is purchasing the business.

Mr Burge said: “"I have missed being involved in the beer business and I was delighted to step in when I heard Nethergate was up for sale, especially when I confirmed that Paul Gower, the head brewer was still there.

“I look forward to working with him to produce some more great beers for the publicans and beer lovers in the area.

“I know that there has been uncertainty recently, it's been a tough couple of weeks for our staff and customers, and I would like to thank them for their loyalty."

Mr Burge had decided to retire and sell the Nethergate Brewery in 2010 to spend more time with his family.

The business had been established in Clare, Suffolk, but moved to larger premises in Pentlow in 2005.

Its new owners had renamed the business Growler Brewery, after its most popular beer, Old Growler, but Mr Burge confirmed he would return to using the Nethergate name.

The brewery, which employs 12 people, produces six main beers as well as a selection of regional ales.