AN MP has visited one of the region’s largest microbreweries.

Newcastle North MP Catherine McKinnell toured the Hadrian Border Brewery in her constituency, which has brewed a range of ales to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of the Battle of the Somme.

The brewery, run by Shona Burrows and husband Andy, has created a ‘Durham Light Infantry’ light ale, a ‘Tyneside Scottish’ ale based on a Scottish recipe, a ‘Newcastle Commercials’ brown ale, and the ‘Tyneside Irish’ stout.

Remembering the Durham Pals on the battlefield where they gave their young lives
Help commemorate the sacrifices made by the men of the Durham Light Infantry at the Somme. In the month of July 2016, we are aiming to raise £10,000 to create a battlefield memorial to those who fell 100 years ago. To donate, either go to crowdfunding.justgiving.com/sommememorial and make a pledge, or send a cheque made payable to Former Charities of the Durham Light Infantry to The Rifles Durham Office, Elvet Waterside, Durham DH1 3BW.

Some of the proceeds are going towards an event being planned on Newcastle’s Quayside to mark the end of the Somme offensive.

Commemorative ales are available from outlets including Fenwick, Alnwick Castle, Preston Park Museum and Beamish Museum and have already raised more than £1,000 towards the fund.

Ms McKinnell said: “I had a fascinating visit to Hadrian Border Brewery, hearing more about the science and complexities of brewing as well as some of the challenges facing local firms of this size.

“Shona and her husband Andy have clearly worked incredibly hard to build their business over a number of years, and it’s great to be able to help support this success.

“The creation of these bespoke First World War ales is a very special tribute to the North-East men who fought and, in many cases, made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf.”