THE site of a brewery that produces an iconic Cornish beer will close in December, it has been confirmed.

Molson Coors, the brewery giant which acquired Sharp’s Brewery in 2011, has confirmed that it will close the Rock brewery which makes the products in December 2026.

Sharps Brewery is known as one of Cornwall’s best known brewed experts, with long established and popular products such as its Doom Bar ale in addition to Sea Fury and Atlantic Pale Ale.

It has been based in Rock since it was founded in 1994 by Bill Sharp, remaining independent before being acquired by the Canadian-American drinks giant Molson Coors.

It is expected that 40 jobs will be lost as part of the closure, and is set to mean that a Cornish branded alcohol product will be fully manufactured outside of the Duchy.

Sharps branded cask ales are instead set to be produced by Cameron’s Brewery, a third party manufacturer which is based in the North East of England, 415 miles away from Rock.

Meanwhile, Molson Coors will continue to produce Sharp’s kegs and packaged beers at its breweries in Burton and Tadcaster, indicating that the brand will continue but with the last of its Cornish brewery connections no longer in place.

Simon Kerry, managing director for Molson Coors in the UK and Ireland, said: “For the last 15 years, Sharp’s Brewery has formed a significant part of our UK business, so taking the decision to close the site has not been easy.

“However, despite our best efforts, the site is no longer financially sustainable.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank our many exceptional colleagues at Rock who have been instrumental in the success of the Sharp’s brands during that time. Our focus is now on supporting those impacted throughout this transition.”