Golden beers are rocketing in popularity, with 48% of people preferring them to their darker counterparts, according to research by Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

Women were particularly keen on the golden varieties, with more than half (54%) choosing them over darker ales.

Younger drinkers were also keen, with 58% of the 25 to 34 age group opting for the lighter-coloured beverage.

The region that favoured the beer the most was the South East, with 65% of respondents going for gold.

Mike Benner, CAMRA’s chief executive said: “Many people, particularly younger people and women, say they don’t choose ale as it is too heavy, too bitter, or too old fashioned. The onslaught of golden ales has changed all that and I think we are facing a period of significant growth for real ale.”

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