A BREWERY is toasting success.

Blackedge Brewing Co has been named the best independent craft brewery in the North West at the coveted SIBA North West Independent Beer Awards 2018.

The prestigious awards, run by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) and held at the University of Bolton Stadium, are judged in a blind tasting by brewers and beer experts and said to be seen as "very much as the brewers' choice awards in the industry".

Blackedge Brewing Co brew their beer just three miles from the Bolton Wanderers ground where the competition took place, and took home the overall Gold in the cask beer category with their ‘West Coast’ Pale Ale ­— an aromatic brew featuring punchy American hops.

Wayne Roper, director and head brewer, said: "We’re absolutely delighted. It’s been a tough year in a market that is so saturated and competitive and this is brilliant recognition from ours peers.

"We’re all about quality, no compromise on ingredients, and we brew full flavoured beers that people want to drink ­— it’s great to see that shining through to judges in the competition."

SIBA’s chief executive Mike Benner was on hand to present the awards.

He said: "I was blown away by the standard of brewing on display at the SIBA North West Independent Beer Awards and all of the winners should be hugely proud of their achievement.

"Judges had a really tough job separating out the best of the best. I’d especially like to congratulate Blackedge and Redwillow, who alongside a number of wins in various categories across the competition, also claimed the overall champion Golds – the top awards on offer."

The competition took place ahead of the Bolton Beer Festival held at the stadium over the weekend.