A BEER from a North-East microbrewery has been endorsed by a leading pub firm.

From December, the American Pale Ale produced by Sonnet 43 Brew House, in Coxhoe, County Durham, will be included in a list of recommended beers from Mitchells and Butlers – the largest operator of restaurants, pubs and bars in the UK.

The list is sent to all 1,612 Nicholson’s and Castle venues, with the suggestion they consider stocking the beers detailed.

Brewery bosses hope the boost will extend their business across the country, particularly into London.

Sonnet 43 founder Mark Hird said: “Sonnet 43’s range of award-winning beers, including American Pale Ale, has proven increasingly popular in sites across the UK and we’re delighted that it may soon be available throughout London thanks to support from Mitchells and Butlers.”

Sonnet 43 opened in 2012, named after a verse by local poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning that begins: "How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."