A BREWERY backed by an Oxford-born cricketer is trying to raise £250,000 as it seeks to expand.

Chadlington Brewery wants to build a tap room at its site, near Chipping Norton, and is today launching a crowdfunding appeal on the website Crowdcube.

Donators will be rewarded based on the amount they invest, with prizes ranging from having their name etched on the tap room wall to deliveries of free beer.

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The successful brewery sponsors Oxfordshire County Cricket's first team and counts Somerset bowler, Jack Brooks, as one of its ambassadors.

The 34-year-old's playing commitments mean he rarely gets to visit the brewery's base in the West Oxfordshire countryside, but he remains committed to the business.

Mr Brooks said: “I’m proud to be involved with such a passionate, strong, local brand, together with the fact that it’s a quality product that’s making a name for itself within Oxfordshire and as a working partner with Oxfordshire Cricket.

“I really think the brand will grow from strength to strength and I’m excited to be part of this journey.”

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The cricketer is one of the company's five-strong 'brew crew', alongside head of operations Jason Chipchase, commercial manager Luci Crudge, Phil McConville and Chris Slischer.

Chadlington Brewery only moved into its current base last year, when increased demand meant the business needed a home fit to take on larger orders.

2018 also saw the brewery launch a special lager for the Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge, with the company returning on Sunday for the 2019 edition.

Mr Brooks, who started his career at Oxfordshire before moving to Northamptonshire and Yorkshire, joined the team one year ago and is always prepared to take a hands-on role.

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Mr Chipchase said: “At last year’s boat race he was the guy unloading the van."

In addition to funding the new tap room, the crowdfunding campaign will help the brewery increase its production as demand continues to rise.

It is hoped the new space will be completed later this summer, with the brewery aiming to hold regular events and tours.

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Mr Chipchase revealed the business may need up to £100,000 on top of the £250,000 target, but the team is determined to reach their goal and build on their success.

He continued: “We set up the brewery because we wanted to create a beer that really resonated with Oxfordshire and the great place it is to live.

“The tap room gives us a fantastic opportunity to create an event space with great views in a great location."

The brewery's products are made using only natural ingredients, including Oxfordshire spring water and 'the finest' English hops and malt.

Meanwhile, the six core beers leave customers in no doubt of the brewery's roots: Oxford Blue, Oxford Old Blue, Oxford Blonde, Oxford IPA, Oxford PA and Chadlington Gold.

To donate to the campaign, visit crowdcube.com and search for Chadlington Brewery