Cotswold Hills-based brewer Hook Norton has been celebrated at the 2012 International Beer Challenge Awards, scooping five of the prestigious awards that acknowledge skilful brewers and provide an internationally recognised symbol of quality.

Recently listed as a favourite of, acclaimed beer writer, Adrian Tierney-Jones, Old Hooky proved popular at the awards, with the flagship ale receiving a silver medal in the Ales category. Hooky, Hooky Gold, Haymaker, and Twelve days were also commended, with each receiving a bronze medal.

Judged by some of the shrewdest beer judges in the country, the competition sees each beer evaluated on its appearance, aroma, taste and finish, to provide an overall score.

This year the standard has been described as particularly high, with the judges being impressed by the quality and wide variety put forward.  With entries from over 25 different countries, the competition is tougher than ever.

Speaking after the awards, Adrian Staley, Managing Director (Commercial) at Hook Norton commented:  “For us, quality is at the heart of everything we do. We take the best, natural ingredients and handcraft them into something really special, and winning five awards in such a fierce competition proves testament to that philosophy.”