However, there were still nearly 1,500 independent brewers operating around 6,500 separate breweries in 1900.

Growth in the take-home trade - some 15 per cent of all beer sales - in which only a few of the larger independent brewers have national distribution.

Little Eaton has a great history for independent brewers, The Queens Head was originally named the Delvers Inn after the "delvers" who worked in the local quarries.

On a recent trip to Ireland, my husband and I sipped our way across the country, sampling smooth stouts, crisp ales and bold lagers, all made by small, independent brewers.

Across the river from town is the Jennings Brewery, one of the few remaining independent brewers in the area.

The legislation had been campaigned for by the federation of small and independent brewers (SIBA).

The threat to choice and to the remaining independent brewers demands a strong and continuing Campaign that will fight for drinkers' rights and challenge the might of the brewing giants.

A festival of real ale is being held where you can taste the best of the beer made by the country's small independent brewers.

Huerlimann was one of the remaining independent middle-ranking Swiss brewers.

Keg was given massive promotion and the success of such brands as Double Diamond and Worthington E was forcing independent brewers to switch to keg production too.