The event is organised by the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), Two of the brewery’s ales Southern Summit and Bravehop Amber earned their place at the national finals by winning an award in a regional SIBA competition.

They are just two of just a handful of beers to represent the Scottish region at BeerX, where they will be judged against beers of the same style.

Fiona MacEachern, managing director of Loch Lomond Brewery and brewer, told the Reporter: “We are very proud of our beers and delighted to have this opportunity to compete on a national stage, against some of the finest beers from all over the UK.

“Obviously, we’re hoping to come home from BeerX with a medal, but we’re happy just to be going to Sheffield and introducing our beer to hundreds of drinkers who haven’t tried it before.” Fiona described the Southern Summit as a four per cent hoppy blonde ale with refreshing citrus flavours and aromas while Bravehop Amber is a strong six per cent IPA with a big hit of American hops.

She added: “We’re grateful to everyone at our brewery who has helped us to brew great beer, and to the many local pubs, shops and drinkers who have supported us.” Gold, Silver and Bronze medals are awarded in each category, as well as three Supreme Champion Awards, given to the best cask, keg and bottled beers. Winners will be announced this week.

After being judged by a panel of more than 100 judges, all the beers will be sold to drinkers at the BeerX Festival of Beer. Beer enthusiasts and novices are expected to visit the festival and enjoy more than 200 ales, lagers, stouts, milds, and other styles of beer on offer.

Mike Benner, SIBA managing director, said: “There are now more than 1,400 small brewers in the UK, producing innovative, flavourful beers that have fuelled the regeneration of the British beer market and introduced millions of consumers to our national drink. “With hundreds of beers entered into at our regional beer competitions, winning an award and progressing to the national finals is a mark of a quality beer and Loch Lomond Brewery should be very proud of their achievement.” For more information on the brewery please see their website www.lochlomondbrewery.com or visit their shop within the brewery at Loch Lomond Industrial Estate near Loch Lomond Distillery and Antartex.