The Orkney Brewery in Stromness, Orkney – owned by Sinclair Breweries – plans to develop a visitor centre and sampling room.

Norman Sinclair, chief executive of Sinclair Breweries, said: “The Orkney Brewery site, which already draws a considerable number of visitors each year, has enormous potential as a tourist attraction. We feel that a high-quality, purpose-built centre would greatly enhance the overall experience of people visiting the brewery.

“In addition to telling the story of the Orkney Brewery and explaining the brewing process through guided tours and displays, the visitor centre will also stock local crafts and produce and therefore be an important shop window for the best of what the county has to offer.”

Sinclair is currently in discussion with Orkney Enterprise and Orkney Islands Council over possible funding assistance for the development, with work expected to begin in spring 2007. Details: www.quaffale.org.uk