SUFFOLK-based lager brewer Calvors has acquired its first public house.

The Rampant Horse at Needham Marke will offer a wide range of locally-sourced food and drink, including Calvors lagers which are brewed nearby at Coddenham Green.

The deal represents a major step for Calvors, which was formed in 2008 and in December last year was named winner of THE ONE competition for 2011, a contest for start-up firms carrying a prize of business support wrth �50,000.

Calvors founder Alec Williamson said: “We are delighted to have acquired our first public house. At The Rampant Horse we intend to provide a warm, friendly environment with good pub food, fresh ground coffees, real ales and of course our own lagers!

“We will be offering products from in and around Suffolk for both food and drink to support local businesses and the community.”

Calvors beat off competition from five other finalists to win THE ONE competition, which gives Alec the chance to work with organisations including PR agency Voice Communications and brand and creative firm Zeal Design to develop his business over the coming year.

Also contributing their services to the prize package will be the East Anglian Daily Times, business consultant Simon May, search engine optimisation specialist Climbing Trees Online Marketing, law firm Ellisons, accountants LB Group, leadership and management coaching from Faith Performance and call answering service MyRuby.

The Rampant Horse, which dates from the 16th Century, sold as a freehold freehouse through specialist licensed sector agent Fleurets.

Bob Whittle of Fleurets said: “The Rampant Horse is a fine example of a traditional Suffolk pub.

“It is heavily timbered throughout and includes a saloon bar and dining room along with spacious first floor five bedroom living accommodation. Externally there is a courtyard patio, timber framed barn, double garage and car park.

“The property occupies a prominent position at the southern end of Needham Market town, just 200 yards from the railway station.”