REAL ale used to be a drink popular with men, usually of a certain age.

But, like cider before it, it has become increasingly ‘trendy’ and is drunk by younger people and women more and more often.

And it’s great to see East Lancashire producers keeping up with demand.

Nationally, there has been a 24 per cent rise in the number of small breweries over the past 12 months, making it one of the fastest growing sections of the food and drinks industry.

With nightclubs and nightlife in general struggling, it’s excellent to hear that the beer industry is enjoying somewhat of a resurgence.

This area is certainly no stranger to the craft beer industry. Indeed, many of our small breweries have been around for some time but have got busier and busier over the years.

Micro breweries, defined by the Brewers Association trade group as a brewery that produces less than 15,000 barrels a year, are popping up all the time and winning awards for their efforts.

The recent successes certainly offer encouragement to East Lancashire’s budding entrepreneurs and investors.

And with the county’s proud history in the brewing industry, it’s reassuring to see a tradition continuing.