St Austell Brewery has reported another rise in annual sales.

The brewery said today (May 16) that turnover for the 53-week period to January 2, rose 7.9% to £137.4 million.

Operating profit before items rose 7.6% to £13.5 million.

Non-executive chairman, Will Michelmore, said: “St Austell Brewery invested £16.6 million during 2015 on capital expenditure, of which £8.6 million was on new acquisitions. The company has also continued its investment in its production facilities and in refurbishing and improving its pubs and hotels.”

Chief executive, James Staughton, added: “I am delighted to report another year of significant progress in all of our operating divisions.

“Looking ahead, we have the skills and ambition to pursue future opportunities as they arise and to achieve our five-year strategy of delivering great distinctive experiences through product and service excellence and innovation.”