A brewery which started just 29 years ago in a former bakery has been sold for more than £19m.

Ringwood Brewery Limited has been bought by Wolverhampton-based Marston's PLC.

Established in 1978, Ringwood brands include award-winning beers such as Ringwood Best Bitter, Old Thumper and Fortyniner.

The business supplies approximately 700 customers, predominantly in the south and employs some 40 staff.

Allaying fears of job cuts and relocation, a company spokesman said: "There will be no change - it's business as usual. We will continue to operate from the brewery in Ringwood - no jobs are threatened and neither are our renowned brands."

Marston's strategy is to develop a portfolio of well-established premium regional beer brands to complement the core Marston's range led by Pedigree.

This £19.2m transaction fits well with Marston's recent purchase of the Eldridge Pope estate in Dorchester and strengthens the company's position further in the south of England.

Ringwood also owns seven high quality, freehold, traditional pubs which will be incorporated into the Marston's Pub Company estate.

Commenting on the acquisition, managing director of Marston's, Alistair Darby, said: "We are delighted to welcome Ringwood to Marston's.

"We plan to develop its excellent brands as part of our strategy to meet consumer demand for premium ales with local provenance and heritage."