COCKERMOUTH brewery Jennings has announced it will sell Cumberland Ale to
pubs across the UK.

Jennings bosses believe the ale, which is the brewer's flagship beer, has
massive potential and will sell the beer in 'food and cask ale destination
pubs' across the country.

Jennings was bought in June 2005 by Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries in a
£45 million deal.

A brewery spokesman confirmed that the beer would continue to be brewed at
the Cockermouth brewery and production would increase following the
decision.

Managing director of Wolverhampton & Dudley Breweries, Alistair Darby,
said: "We believe that Cumberland Ale has huge potential and this was a key
reason for buying the famous brand."

Mr Darby said the firm has invested heavily in the Jennings brands and its
beer sales have shown steady growth since the takeover.

"This is an ideal opportunity to establish Cumberland Ale as a national
brand as well as improve the choice of quality hand-pulled ales in pubs," he
added.

Jennings head brewer Peter Law added: "It's great to see that one of our
best-loved beers will be available to a wider audience and I'm delighted
that the company is investing in the brand."