Tavistock Brewery

“We both had an interest in brewing,” recalls Richard, a retired podiatrist to Matthew’s self-employed property renovator. “It started as a hobby, but that seems like a long time ago.”

The pair embarked on their adventure by attending an intensive brewing course in Manchester in November 2017. Upon their return, they set about the major task of converting a disused farm building, previously used as an old dairy, into a modern micro-brewery complete with brewing floor, administration centre and hospitality area for potential publican customers.

But then covid hit. Although the pandemic caused huge disruption in the hospitality industry, their delayed entry into the industry proved beneficial for the fledgling brewers, allowing them time and space to hone their art.

Now well established, they sell to pubs and restaurants within a 30-mile radius, including in Tavistock, Okehampton, Plymouth and Torquay as well local hostelries such as the Peter Tavy Inn and the Leaping Salmon in Horrabridge.

Their brews include the Master Ale (4.6% ABV), a porter-type tipple, and a Golden Ale (4.3% ABV) which is lighter in colour. The English Ale (4.5% ABV) is described as a beer in the traditional ale mode but with a modern twist. A winter ale went down very well last year.

Pub customers loved the beer so much that they sought bottled beers that could be consumed in the comfort of their own homes. The duo recently turned their attention to delivering a bottled product for people to enjoy at home.

The Goslins applied to Start Up Loans via the programme’s Business Support Partner, GC Business Finance, for a cash injection of £10,000 to support with the cost of the bottling process.

Their first consignment – around 3,000 bottles – is now ready to sell. “People have been turning up at the door asking if they can buy bottles, so I’m confident it will do well,” says Richard.

They are equal partners in the business, with Matthew, 40, taking the lead on brewing and delivery, while Richard takes charge of selling and admin duties.

Like any enterprise, it hasn’t been without its pitfalls, from challenging planning decisions to dealing with the different licences required to sell alcohol to establishments versus direct to the public at large.

As retirement goes, Richard isn’t exactly awash with spare time. But that’s fine with him. “I’m 67, not 80,” he says, firmly. “I’m happy as I am.”