A CAMPAIGN aimed at supporting the brewing heritage of Cockermouth, following the closure of Jenning's brewery has been 'overwhelmed' by the genrosity of people in the town.

Several weeks ago, a campaign was launched in response to the closure of Jennings, the aim was to continue the town's brewing heritage and hopefully stimulate further tourism and trade into town.

Crooked River Brewing Co, a small-scale brewery run by two locals that specialises in modern styles of craft beer, has set up a crowdfunding campaign to try and 'scale up' their operations and create a future for brewing in a town that has a long heritage in the industry.

Crooked River Brewing Co was co-founded by West Cumbrian duo Phil Scholey and Alan Fitton-Crellin, who launched their company in September at the Taste Cumbria Festival in partnership with main distributor, Beer Cockermouth.

So far the campaign has raised almost £12,000 of their £20,000 target from over 90 supporters.

Phil and Alan have said they are 'overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity' received so far and say it's clear that many others want to see small businesses in small towns succeed.

CEO of Createc Matt Mellor was inspired by the companies vision, he offered a considerable donation to the cause which led to the companies teaming up on a new beer that could be a gift to his employees or exchanged for alternative gifts at Shills and available for the public - creating Double Dry Hop Pale, a hazy and hoppy beer.

READ MORE: Campaign started to reinstate brewing in Cockermouth after Jennings' closure

Talking about the collaberation, Phil Scholey said: "We are particularly proud of this beer as it marks the first collaborative project with a local business. 

"By supporting businesses like Crooked River and Shills of Cockermouth, they are helping to make Cockermouth an amazing place to live and work not only for their employees but also for the wider community.

"In return we have brewed a beer that embodies their company's brand with robotic themed artwork thanks to local street artist Beardy Synergy.

"This donation gives us a huge boost and brings us ever so closer to our target. We hope it inspires other local businesses to support us or work with us in the future. "

READ MORE: Former Jenning's Brewery in Cockermouth for sale after closure