RAVES may not be for everyone, but one independent tap room in Rochford is fast building a reputation as a community favourite.

Black Box Brewery, in Aviation Way, is the brainchild of two friends with a love for beer.

Founders Chris Barrow and Tom Ryan believe they are carving out a niche for themselves which will help them survive the storms businesses face in the 21st century. 

The microbrewery and tap room hosts drum and bass raves in its warehouse, which is licensed to hold up to 250 people. It is available to hire for parties and small functions.

Chris, 45, from Southend, said: “Because we’re in the middle of nowhere, we can make a bit of noise.

“People are bored of generic beer. So many pubs are shutting down, but people still want to enjoy themselves.

“They want to come out, try something different and enjoy proper beer.”

Echo: Tom and Chris teamed up with semi-retired brewer Mark Deane (centre) to open a brewery.Tom and Chris teamed up with semi-retired brewer Mark Deane (centre) to open a brewery. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Tom, 31, from Fambridge, says the microbrewery came about “almost by pure fluke”.

His father owned the former print works, which had been earmarked for a gym. When that deal fell through, he offered it to the duo.

Chris suggested opening a microbrewery and tap room, despite never brewing before.

He said: “If someone asks, ‘do you want a brewery’, you say, ‘yes’.”

“We’re still not turning a profit just yet. It’s a tough market and there are very few freehouses. We’re fighting other local breweries in a 50-mile radius to get into a pub.”

Echo: Black Box Brewery is one of several businesses housed in the building on Aviation Way.Black Box Brewery is one of several businesses housed in the building on Aviation Way. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Despite its difficulties, the six-barrel plant produces 15,000 pints per brew. Each full brewing process takes around five weeks.

A stone’s throw from Southend Airport, the brewery’s beers are all aviation themed.

Echo: Punters Keith and Tracy have been regular visitors since they stumbled upon the tap room nine months ago.Punters Keith and Tracy have been regular visitors since they stumbled upon the tap room nine months ago. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

Punter Tracy Simmons, 56, of Shakes Lane, Eastwood, said: “This place is like your old-fashioned pub from 20 or 30 years ago. Everybody knows each other.”

Black Box Brewery’s warm and friendly atmosphere is essential, Tracy says.

She added: “You can come in on your own as a female and know you’re safe. That’s very important for a lot of women these days.

“And you can have a bloody good laugh. I really love it.”

Friend Keith Goodfellow, 68, of Whiteways, Eastwood, said: “The beer is absolutely cracking. You couldn’t ask for better bar staff. It’s so friendly and you can bring dogs.”