Yorkshire beer 'best in Britain'

The Rudgate Brewery opened in 1992

An ale produced by a small brewery in North Yorkshire has been named as the best in Britain.

Rudgate Ruby Mild, which is made in Tockwith, near York, was crowned as the Champion Beer of Britain 2009 at the Great British Beer Festival in London.

The beer, which is slightly stronger than a conventional mild, was praised by judges for its nutty, rich flavour.

The Rudgate brewery employs seven staff and was started on the former World War II airfield at Tockwith in 1992.

Brewery owner Craig Lee said the award was an "excellent achievement".

"We hope our beer helps popularise the cause of real ale," he said.

The Ruby Mild was voted the best beer in Britain by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).