BEERS created by a new small batch brewery in Stroud are on tap in pubs around the Five Valleys.

Ales from The Fresh Standard Brew Co—which have proved popular in canned and bag-in-box form during lockdown—are now available on handpump in selected pubs since the partial easing of lockdown.

The brewery is based at the Artisan Ales site in Aston Down, just outside Minchinhampton. 

Pub-goers have been able to enjoy the company's beers at the Prince Albert in Rodborough, the Butchers Arms at Sheepscombe, the Old Fox at Coaley and the Old Spot in Dursley.

And they will soon be available at the Vine Tree in Randwick too.

The Fresh Standard Brew Co began brewing in December 2020 and until now has only been available to residents of the Stroud Valleys via online delivery.

"We wanted to get to know our beers and refine them using the feedback we got from beer lovers on our home patch before rushing to a broader release," brewing director Richard Taylor said.

"Our philosophy is to create simple, low intervention beers, using limited but best quality ingredients and get them to the drinker in as fresh a state possible."

Richard has previously brewed at Stroud Brewery and Cheltenham’s Battledown Brewing Co.

"Our customers have enjoyed the various beers brewed by Richard at Stroud and Battledown over many years," said Lotte Lyster Connolly, landlady at The Prince Albert, Rodborough.

"We are all thrilled that he has bravely taken a giant leap to create his own brewery in Stroud, and the results are delighting everyone who tries them.

"He is a true beer lover and has grown into an experienced brewer with his own unique style."

Alastair Kerr, south west regional representative of The Campaign for Pubs added: "This past year has been the worst on record for the hospitality sector, especially pubs and breweries.

"It is fantastic to see Richard branching out and supporting pubs in the local community by providing fantastic cask-conditioned beer for our beloved local pubs.

"The Fresh Standard Brewery will make an excellent addition to the already fantastic beer scene in Gloucestershire and I for one look forward to supporting Richard and Fresh Standard by trying his beer in some of our brilliant pubs in the South West."

Fresh Standard beer is available now from the Made In Stroud shop on Kendrick Street at £3.50 - £3.75 per can or online at www.thefreshstandard.co.uk

"We will also be at Stroud Farmers’ Market on Saturday, May 29 and would love to have a chat if you would like to come say hello," said Richard.