A Suffolk-based brewery is set to compete against beers created across the country later this month.

Nethergate Brewery based near Clare, on the Suffolk/Essex border, is taking its award-winning Suffolk County beer to the BeerX National Beer Competition, organised by the Society of Independent Brewers.

The beer earned its place at the national finals by winning in the Eastern Region finals.

It is one of just a handful of beers to represent the region at BeerX, where it will be judged against beverages of the same style from all over the country.

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 on Wednesday, March 18.

John Holberry, the brewery’s managing director said: “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.

“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.”

After being judged by a panel of more than 100, all the beers will be sold to drinkers at the BeerX Festival of Beer.

Mr Holberry hopes the 4% Suffolk County will impress judges and customers alike, describing it as a “beautifully balanced, chestnut coloured ale, with a biscuity malt and warm roasted taste – ending with a wonderfully smooth bitter finish”.

BeerX organiser Mike Benner said: “There are now more than 1,400 small brewers in the UK, producing innovative, flavourful beers. With hundreds of beers entered at our regional beer competitions, winning an award and progressing to the national finals is a mark of a quality beer and Nethergate Brewery should be very proud.”