Real ale is becoming more popular as more consumers want to "think and drink local", according to an expert.
The latest Campaign for Real Ale's Good Beer Guide has revealed that there are now 767 breweries currently operating in the UK, an increase of 56 compared to last year.
The growth of real ale has helped significantly boost the flagging brewing industry which had been hit by rising beer tax and competition from supermarkets.
Roger Protz, the guide's editor, claims real ale has thrived despite of these obstacles as consumers are increasingly attracted to local produce.
He said: "The main reason is simple: craft brewers are responding to genuine consumer demand. Real ale hits the spot in every way: it has flavour and is made from pure, natural ingredients that are grown mainly here in Britain.
"More and more people want to think local and drink local and real ale meets that demand."
Typical Guttridge equipment used in the brewing industry includes; conveyors – screw conveyors – chain conveyors – belt conveyors
Emma Green 