HAMPSHIRE is helping lead “the explosion in brewing” as figures revealed it had the fifth highest number of breweries across the UK.

A sharp rise in popularity for local brewers and microbreweries has seen a resurgence in them, especially in the county.

Statistics from Hospitality Training Solutions has shown that Hampshire currently has 20 breweries, with only London, Kent and North and West Yorkshire boasting a higher number in the UK.

The likes of Ringwood Brewery, The Dancing Man Brewery, in Town Quay, Romsey’s Flack Manor Brewery and Lymington-based company Vibrant Forest Brewery are just some of the many firms now offering homemade brews for customers.

Anthony Gregson from Hospitality Training Solutions said: “Craft breweries are a wonderful addition to the UK’s business scene, with many wonderfully unique brews being produced local to each area. It’s a real treat for many, boosts business and is still a growing trend with few signs of slowing down. We thought it was important to show the necessary recognition, and as such, here is a way of doing so. Let’s hope business keeps booming.”

It’s estimated now that there are over 2,000 breweries in the UK alone, with approximately 300 of them opening in 2017.

A spokesperson for CAMRA said: “This explosion in brewing is a direct response to a more discerning beer consumer which demands a wide range of beers – from the palest golden ale to the darkest, richest stout.

“The beer revolution rolls on and appears to be unstoppable with more and more breweries opening to keep up with the demand for full-bodied and flavoursome beers.

“We hope beer drinkers across the UK will take time to try a new locally brewed real ale to celebrate this great success.”