The Tyne Brewery, home to Newcastle Brown Ale, is one of five breweries threatened by Scottish and Newcastle's (S&N) continuing drive to save money, analysts have said.

Analysts at Credit Suisse First Boston have reported that two of the company's ale-making facilities are likely to be closed.

The Northern Echo voiced concerns for the future of the Tyne Brewery last August following industry rumours that the brewing of Newcastle Brown Ale could be moved across the Tyne to the rival Federation Brewery.

The rumour gained weight when it was announced that the kegging of Newcastle Brown would be moved across the river.

Industry sources suggested that fans of Newcastle Brown outside the North-East would not care which side of the river it was brewed on.

At the time, and since then, S&N has denied there was any threat to the brewery which it said was an important part of the company.