I WOULD like to follow on from last month’s column which noted that beer, brewing and pubs support nearly 900,000 jobs in the UK and contribute £23.1 billion to the UK economy annually.

New research conducted by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) shows that the new wave of smaller breweries is creating jobs, opening tap rooms and raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for numerous charities.

SIBA managing director Mike Benner said: “Charity and community events are constantly being organised by independent brewers across the UK and we felt it was time to shine a light on the fantastic work being done.”

More than 30 per cent of those that own a brewery tap, shop or visitor centre stated these local facilities accounted for over a quarter of their trade, which means local money is remaining in the area and benefiting the community as a whole.

One such local brewer is Wishbone Brewery, based just off Dalton Lane in Keighley, which hosts two or three open sessions every month.

The Friday session is adults-only, and you may bring in a takeaway if you wish to make an evening of it. Saturday sessions are family-friendly and is where they buddy up with the local foodies from the Lemon Tree Bistro who provide a range of hot food.

Prices are great with beers from £2 a pint and normally at least six ales to choose from.

The next event is on Saturday, July 15, and our branch will be holding a tasting panel session there, so do drop in to see us to learn about the flavours and what makes beer such a wonderful and varied drinking experience.

Another local brewery is Goose Eye, currently based at Ingrow but shortly expanding to Crossflatts.

The company has been part of the small micro trade since 1991, and is run by the Atkinson family; Jack Senior, along with his son Dave and now grandsons Joe and Jack Junior. Supplying pubs both near and far, they were honoured as the Food and Drink Business of the Year at the recent Keighley and Airedale Business Awards 2017.

So if you see their brews in your local, give them a try, and you know you will be supporting local people who are keeping Keighley in business.