The British Guild of Beer Writers (BGBW) have named Fuller's Head Brewer, John Keeling, 'Brewer of the Year'.

The presentation was made at the BGBW Annual Dinner on Wednesday, December 7th by BGBW Chairman Andrew Pring.

John was given the accolade by the nine-strong awards committee who recognised his magnificent work during 2005 on a number of different beers.

Adrian Tierney-Jones, Secretary of the BGBW, said "This award is given to someone who has made a significant contribution to beer and brewing in the last year, and John certainly fits the bill.

"In his time as head brewer at Fuller's, he has presided over a number of exciting developments, not least the creation of Discovery, an excellent new Blonde Beer.

"We were also impressed by how John has continued the great work started by his well-respected predecessor, Reg Drury, especially on Fuller's Vintage Ale and the great number of special beers he produces - in 2005 alone these included Hock, India Pale Ale and Trafalgar Ale."

Accepting his award, John Keeling said "I'm very grateful to the BGBW for giving me this award in recognition of my efforts in 2005.

"It's been a great year so far and I'm delighted that so many people are pleased with the interesting new beers we've created, especially Discovery, our first new year-round cask ale for nearly 25 years."