On Friday, August 16, members of the Llanion Warriors Longboat Rowing Club were entertained in Llandeilo, the home of the Evan Evans Brewery. The group were warmly welcomed by Mr Simon Buckley (head brewer), his son James and Sajan Muthanna (both assistant brewers), who can be seen in the attached pictures.

Earlier in the year in June, James attended a club barbeque and participated in a row around the Manorbier coastline in rough seas, which provided him with some insight into the challenges of the sport.

Simon comes from Welsh brewing dynasty. The seventh generation of Buckley's to brew within the principality; his family having started brewing in 1767. With over 30 years of industry experience, his first foray in the brewing industry was at the family brewery - Buckley's brewery in Llanelli. Simon opened Evan Evans in 2004 with one aim in mind - to brew high quality and innovative brands.

Over the past seven years the brewery has evolved to be one of the most successful in Wales, picking up many awards and accolades. Simon leads from the front, developing each of the new ales the company produces with the brewing team. He also runs the award-winning pub estate, which sees their products sold throughout Wales and the UK.

During the last 12 months, the club has established very strong links with the brewery, through the auspices of Mr Norman Edwards (of The Old Kings Arms Hotel, Pembroke), who is a very enthusiastic member of the rowing club. The members were given a thoroughly absorbing and detailed tour of this prolific and very modern facility by Simon, James and Sajan, who answered a wide array of interesting and probing questions about the whole operation. After the tour, everyone was treated to a tasting session in the brewery, which highlighted the intricacies involved in the production of their range of ales.

This was followed by further hospitality at the bewery owned White Horse, in the town centre, where Simon and the Warriors group chatted informally, were thanked for their generous hospitality and presented with a club pennant.

The club is very grateful for the evening and the continued support of the Buckley led Evan Evans brand and they look forward to developing theiur links still further in the future.

Llanion Warriors barbecue

Llanion Warriors Rowing Club would like to announce that the barbecue planned for Pembroke RFC on Sunday, August 25, has been cancelled, due to the tragic loss to one of their families.

All members of the club and supporters send sincerest condolences to the whole family and their thoughts are with them at this very sad time.