Stroud Brewery has already hit its crowdfunding target, raising funds for an expansion with over three weeks to spare.

Last week the Brewery launched a campaign to raise £300,000 to help pay for its re-location to a bigger brewery and bar this autumn.

Members of the public were offered the opportunity to buy a bonds in the brewery for a minimum of £1,000.

But, despite giving itself a deadline of the end of August to raise the cash, the Brewery has already raised the full £300,000.

“We are thrilled to have reached our target so quickly,” said Greg Pilley, the brewery’s owner.

“We continue to receive emails from many who missed the opportunity, and know we could have far exceeded our target.”

“We thank everyone who has supported us and has confidence in our business, and we look forward to celebrating with all of them in our new Brewery.”

Bond holders will receive five per cent interest with capital repaid after seven years.

Investors will also become members of the Stroud Brewery Beer Club for the period of the bond, giving them a ten per cent discount on the Brewery’s beers online or in the bar.

Stroud Brewery has been brewing beer for 12 years at its home in Thrupp, just outside Stroud.

Its new site is only 400 yards away and has been designed to accommodate the organic brewery’s growing needs.

Providing greater capacity for beer production, storage facilities, event spaces and larger offices, the site promises to be more sustainable through heat reclamation, rainwater harvesting and solar electricity.

There will also be a brand-new taproom bar offering canal side views.

Stroud Brewery launched its crowdfunding campaign with Triodos Bank.

Richard O'Brien, corporate finance manager at Triodos Bank UK, said: “This was one of the fastest crowdfunding campaigns we have done and its success shows the support for strong local organic businesses.

“Stroud Brewery have an impressive management team and commitment to sustainability through their whole supply chain.

“This investment offer raised significant local interest in our crowdfunding site with just under half the amount raised from people in Gloucestershire.

“Those signed up to on the platform will be first to hear about our next investment opportunities."