A HILLINGDON man won a competition to brew a special ale for this month’s London Drinker Beer and Cider Festival.

A keen home brewer for more than 15 years, Matthew Johns  won the chance to work with Michaela Charles, head brewer at Alphabeta Brewery, near Liverpool Street.

He came up with a name for the dog that is the 2018 Festival logo and was inspired by the Chinese zodiac calendar in which 2018 is Year of the Dog.

The winning name was Beerwulf, an unusual beer, using Fuggles, sage, and honey. Once fully fermented, the ABV will be in the range of 4.5-5%.

“Coming to AlphaBeta Brewery was a great way for a home-brew enthusiast to see how the pros do it and learn lots from Michaela,” said Matthew, of Sutton Hill Road.

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Beerwulf will be available exclusively at the festival from March 14-16 at Camden Centre, Bidborough Street. This is the last ever London Drinker Festival as the hall is closing this summer for refurbishment.

It will feature 180 locally brewed real ales, 50 cider and perries, imported beers and a small selection of English wine and mead.

Opening times and ticket prices:

Wednesday, March 14: 11.30-3pm free, 5-10.30pm £4 (£3 CAMRA members)

Thursday, March 15: 11.30-2.30pm free, 5-10.30pm £4 (£3 CAMRA members)

Friday, March 16: 12-10.30pm £4 (£3 CAMRA members)

Last admission 10pm. Wheelchair accessible. Over 18s only.

For more details and tickets, see: http://tinyurl.com/LDbeerfes