Christian Townsley and John Gyngell, the founding members of North Brewing Company Limited, have departed the business.

Steve Holt of Vertical Drinks Limited, who confirmed the news, said: “Christian and John have decided to move on to concentrate on their other business ventures and I would like to wish them all the best for the future.

“They have built a great brand and team at North and I’m sure we will maintain the close business relationship we have developed over many years.”

Holt had bought the brewery out of administration at the start of the year. Speaking at the time, John Gyngell, co-founder of North said: “We are pleased to have found a solution for our team and the legacy of the North brand”.

Steve Holt of Kirkstall Brewery added: “We’ve been friends and industry colleagues for almost 30 years, North is an iconic beer brand that had to continue. Together we’ll make sure that North will continue to make some of the best beer in the country.”