Stewart Ross has been appointed technical director of Wharfedale Brewery, which is based at the Flying Duck pub in Ilkley.

Mr Ross, an award-winning brewer, has been acting as a consultant to the firm and his appointment comes three months after its launch.

Stewart, 52, who is registered blind, has been general manager of the Church Street brewpub for the past 12 months.

Previously he was one of the founders of award-winning Ilkley Brewery in 2009 which brought brewing back to the town for the first time in 100 years. He left the company in 2012.

At Ilkley Brewery he was responsible for creating its flagship Mary Jane beer and has already created three brews for Wharfedale assisted by brewer Michael Allan.

Jonathan Shepherd, Wharfedale Brewery marketing director, said: “We feel we have pulled off a major coup in appointing Stewart as a full board member and his new beers are already proving a big hit in the town. ”

The Flying Duck, which is Ilkley’s first brewpub, has reported brisk trade during its first quarter. It plans to introduced a lunchtime food menu and a series of events.