It is with sadness we report the shock announcement that the reigning Champion Club of Wales - The Real Ale Farm in Gilfach Fargoed – will call last orders on 12th May.

In the six years since the club re-launched as the Real Ale Farm the choice and sales of cask ales and traditional cider have soared, earning many CAMRA awards at local and national levels.

In an area dominated by national brands and large pub companies, the introduction of wider choice brought an increasing number of discerning customers, many making journeys from neighbouring towns and villages, to enjoy the range and quality on offer.

A vibrant social and community hub, many charities have benefited from fund raising events, and activities included trips to breweries, champion pubs and beer festivals.

The building itself has a fascinating and complex history. Thought to have been a manor house, and later a farm, it is one of the earliest surviving local buildings, predating the industrial era prevalent in the area. However, despite lending its name to the district, it lacks protected status, leaving its future far from assured.

A massive thanks to Rob, Anne-Marie and all the team at the Real Ale Farm, we wish you well for the future.