A BEER from Bath and a tipple from Taunton have taken home the two champion awards at the Tuckers Maltings Beer Festival in Newton Abbot.

Ultra by Bath-based Dawkins Ales, a strong IPA brewed with American ad New Zealand hops, was named king of the cask beers, while Exmoor Beast by Exmoor Ales, a rich strong British Ale, claimed top spot in the ’small pack’ competition for beers in bottles and cans.

The Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), organisers of the popular event, maintain the standard of entries is improving year on year.

Buster Grant, SIBA chairman said after last night’s (Thursday) verdict were announced: "This is our oldest regional competition - and the standard gets higher every year.

"This year we saw two great examples of full-flavoured strong beers in two very different styles take home the top spots.

"It sums up perfectly the vibrant brewing scene we have in the UK, where brewers are both inspired by the past and looking to the future."

He added: "It’s also nice to show the huge diversity of beers now available in the South West, from the traditional low-ABV bitters the region was once known for, to the strong, richly flavoured beers that took home the top spot."

Pete Howson, Brewer at Dawkins Ales, enthused: "Being the overall champion is great as it gives recognition to all the hard work everyone puts in."

Jonathan Price, of Exmoor Ales, said of their win: "This award means a great deal to our brewing team - and we’re very proud of the beer which was obviously a hit with the judges."

The festival continues until Saturday.