BEER lovers are being encouraged to sample some of the finest pints on the newly launched Horwich Ale Trail.

Devised by the Bolton branch of the Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA), the trail features some of the most popular pubs from across the area.

It is the first trail that has ever been created by Bolton CAMRA.

The passage follows the route of the 125 Bolton to Preston bus, taking punters from Bunbury’s in Chorley Old Road and up the hill towards The Crown in Chorley New Road.

It will take in pubs along the way including Bob’s Smithy Inn, The Brewery Bar, Hope and Anchor, The Finishers Arms and Bank Top Brewery Ale House.

Dave Sweeney, who owns Bank Top Brewery, hailed the trail and said it would help to promote both cask ale and pubs in the town.

Mr Sweeney said: “I think it is an extremely positive thing for the industry in this area.

“It is a new thing and I think it will be a great way to promote all the different cask ales in the town.

“And it is a nice opportunity for all of these places to showcase all of their cask ales and they will be able to show off some of their products.

“It’s a nice and vibrant area Horwich. There are some wonderful establishments where people will be able to sample some of the fine selections.

“There are several award-winning pubs in Horwich and it is a thriving area for the industry with a great community.”

He also spoke about how the town had moved towards being populated by many eating and drinking establishments following on from its industrial past with the Horwich Loco Works.

“It has had to diversify from being very heavily industrial with the Loco Works to now being a hub for shopping, restaurants and pubs.”

But he also had some advice for people looking to have a go at the Horwich Ale Trail.

He said: “I would say it would probably be best doing it downhill as it could be difficult going the other way.”

Bolton CAMRA has released a map showing the trail and all of the pubs included. with some information about the establishments, their history and what they offer.

It can be viewed by going to bolton.camra.org.uk/ale-trails