A WIRRAL brewery has been named the best in the UK at an international beer awards.

Birkenhead-based Glen Affric Brewery scooped the UK Brewer of the Year at the 2023 edition of the International Beer Challenge (IBC).

The IBC aims to reward and promote beers from around the globe, providing a platform for brewers to present their beers to both trade and consumers.

The brewery also enjoyed success with its Queensway Stout being named Best Speciality Beer and the BA Breakfast Stout winning the Best Flavoured Beer category. 

Craig McCormick, co-founder of Glen Affric, said: "This year marks the fifth year of our participation in beer competitions, and as of this week, we've achieved a remarkable milestone that we never thought possible: we officially passed over 100 medals and now have an impressive total of 123 medals in this relatively short span.

"These awards include two World’s Best titles, two Best of International Trophies, 14 UK Country winners, five Double Golds, 42 Golds, 23 Silvers and 35 Bronze medals. A frankly staggering achievement for our small, independently run, family brewery.

"The past 18 months have posed significant challenges for the brewing and hospitality industry as a whole. It’s been harrowing at times. Witnessing the closure of many of our fellow breweries and beloved bars in the wake of the Covid pandemic and the escalating cost of living crisis has been a sobering experience.

"Nevertheless, receiving an accolade of this stature serves as a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to producing world-class beers. With our exceptional team at Glen Affric, we are confident we can continue to grow and innovate in 2024 and beyond."

A spokesman for the IBC said: "Over the years we have seen more and more brewers enter their bottled, canned, or mini kegs from around the world, and today we receive a variety of beers from no fewer than 40 countries.

"Being a part of the IBC carries with it numerous significant benefits. Not only do we acknowledge the skill of the brewer, but the IBC medal is an internationally recognised symbol of quality, frequently displayed on beer labels.

"Retailers, restaurateurs, bar owners and wholesalers are justifiably proud of the range of award-winning beers they carry. Drinks lists promote IBC award-winners directly to the consumer, influencing buying decisions, and increasing a brands' profile, prestige, and sales."