AN ALLOA brewer has picked up a major new industry award, edging out competition from hundreds of other hopefuls.

Brotherhood Lager by Williams Bros. Brewing Co. was named Best Lager at the Indie Beer Can Festival, held last week.

The event saw UK and Ireland’s leading indie brewers gather together to champion the hottest trend in the independent beer market – cans.

The market has grown from four brands in can two years ago to more than 100, and based on the success of the event, this growth is set to continue.

Speaking before the final, Christopher Williams, from William Bros Brewing Co, said: “We entered the Indie Beer Can Festival as we have just installed our caning machine and this year will see the launch of four lines in can – three existing lines and a new product, our gluten free, hopped up Brotherhood Lager.

“As luck would have it our new product was the one to make it into the final, it’s a great chance for us to put the product to the test and to get feedback from judges and beer lovers alike. I can’t wait to taste it myself too.”

An expert taste-judging panel included industry experts Adrian Tierney-Jones and Annabel Smith, Ben Hume, then Beer Buyer for Lidl, as well as Martin Constable, chairman of the Can Makers.

Mr Hulme said: “The range of tastes and can designs at the festival has been nothing short of spectacular and I have really enjoyed tasting each brand.

“The independent beer industry is one that celebrates innovation and entrepreneurship and these qualities have been on display in abundance. I feel privileged to have been a judge, encouraging a brilliant industry.”

Mr Constable added: “Two years ago there were only a handful of UK craft beers available in can. We couldn’t be prouder that this festival has supported such incredible and positive market growth. We’d like to congratulate all the entrants and finalists who have done an amazing job showcasing indie beers in cans.”

The second Indie Beer Can Festival launched in October 2015 with independent brewers in the UK invited to submit their beers, regardless of pack format.

From over 130 entrants, 36 semi-finalists were selected before 13 were chosen as finalists.

Those not already in can won the opportunity to trial their brand in a can for the festival final.