A MICRO-BREWERY is celebrating after its ale was chosen to be an official representative of the Lindisfarne Gospels this summer.

Sonnet 43 Brew House’s Insular Art beer triumphed after it won over both the public and a judging panel in the battle of the beers competition in Bishop Auckland Food Festival.

The company has been brewing craft beer for only six months at their premises in Coxhoe, County Durham.

The Lindisfarne Gospels exhibition will run from July 1 until September 30 in Durham.

Head brewer Michael Harker said: “From receiving the brief, we all felt the beer need to recreate key flavours of the famous Lindisfarne Mead, so we used herbal hops and honey within the fermentation and I’m proud to say herbal, spice and honey notes really shine through in the beer.”

Brewery owner Mark Hird, added: “I am thrilled that Sonnet 43 will have the accolade of representing such a momentous event and very happy that now more people will have the opportunity to try Insular Art, as I believe it is a really great tasting beer.”

Dr Keith Bartlett, Lindisfarne Gospels programme director said “I am delighted that this amazing book has inspired the creation of a special Lindisfarne Gospels Durham beer.

“The exhibition has captured the imaginations of businesses across the region and many want to be part of this experience providing Lindisfarne Gospels themed products, events and services.”

Insular Art will be on sale at selected pubs in Durham, and from the exhibition gift shop in Palace Green Library.