A craft beer taproom has confirmed a delay to the opening of its latest venue in Watford town centre.

Mad Squirrel, which brews its own beer, was hoping to open its seventh bar and taproom in King Street this winter.

But in a Facebook post this month, Mad Squirrel told its fans and followers it is now aiming to open in June instead.

The post on March 8 said: "Unfortunately we have had a number of setbacks out of our control with reference to starting the work on Watford.

"The building suffered a significant water leak that caused extensive damage to the building and its contents. We have been subsequently working hard over the last few months to resolve the issues with insurance and our partners in this project."

It added: "We are now thrilled to confirm that the refit will be starting very shortly and we are aiming for an opening date in June.

"We do sincerely apologise for the delay, this has been very frustrating for our company and our aspirations for the town, but we are now virtually there and cannot wait to open our new Taproom."

Watford Observer: A screenshot of a Facebook post from Mad Squirrel updating followers on the progress of its venue in WatfordA screenshot of a Facebook post from Mad Squirrel updating followers on the progress of its venue in Watford

Mad Squirrel, which will open inside the former Zizzi restaurant, says its venue will feature 25 taps of its own beer and a range of guest beers, craft gins and spirits, fine wines, along with fridges of drinks available to have in or takeaway.

Mad Squirrel, which will have indoor and outdoor seating, will also serve tank beer for the first time which it says will enable the "freshest" beer to be delivered to the tap

The venue will include a pizzeria with its signature wings and fried food options also available.

After securing permission from Watford Borough Council to open last September, Mad Squirrel raised £25,000 through Crowdfunder, offering rewards for investment, helping to pay for furnishings, the bar, and pizzeria.

Mad Squirrel operates its own brewery near Hemel Hempstead, with the beer it produces then sold in its venues, as well as in cans in shops, pubs, cafes, and other establishments. Its latest branch opened in St Albans in 2019.