A Bordon distillery has closed after more than six years in business, with its owner unable to find suitable new premises despite a two-year search.

Hogmoor Distillery served its final customers during Bordon Carnival earlier in the month, bringing an end to a chapter that began in 2019.

Owner Pauline Cheeseman hopes the business can eventually reopen but says finding a suitable location has proved difficult.

The closure had been anticipated, as the premises were always expected to be redeveloped. However, finding an alternative nearby has proved more challenging than expected.

“We've searched and searched. We can't find any suitable other premises, basically,” she said.

The distillery needs premises with both retail and industrial licences, as well as sufficient separation from neighbouring businesses because of the fire risks associated with distilling.

As the business also operates as a bar, space for customers is essential to its survival.

Pauline said several options had been explored, including a bid for the former fire station, but none had proved successful.

“We found quite a few premises, but they are just too far out and none near its former home in Bordon,” she said.

The distillery's equipment and other belongings will now go into storage while Pauline considers her next steps.

Reopening would require suitable premises and several licences, including warehouse, premises and distilling licences.

Pauline said the process could take between six months and a year, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the business's future.

Despite the setback, she hopes to retain the Hogmoor Distillery name and eventually reopen in the area.

Customers have expressed disappointment at the closure, with many saddened by the loss of a popular local business.

Pauline also raised concerns about the loss of local businesses and employment opportunities as Bordon continues to develop, questioning whether enough is being done to support existing traders.