ICONIC Black Country breweries Holden's and Bathams are set to feature in a new book exploring famous brewing families.

Their stories are set to be included in a new book from the Campaign for Real Ale, 'The Family Brewers of Britain', written by award-winning beer writer Roger Protz.

The book will explore the history of Holden's from its creation in Woodsetton in 1915 to the present day where it is now under the leadership of the fourth and fifth generations of the family. Plans are in the works for upgrade and expansion at the site on Park Road to keep up with demand.

Brierley Hill's Bathams will also be featured, tracing its roots back to its formation in 1877 by Daniel Batham. It will explore how the first Bathams’ beer was produced by Daniel’s wife Charlotte while Daniel worked as a miner.

Bathams’ Best Bitter gained nationwide prominence when it won the top prize in the bitter category of CAMRA’s Champion Beer of Britain competition 1991.

Other Midlands family breweries featured in the book include Stoke's Titanic Brewery, Everards in Leicestershire and Lincolnshire's Batemans.

Author Roger Protz is a campaigner, broadcaster, and author of dozens of books about beer and brewing. He has also edited 24 editions of CAMRA’s market-leading Good Beer Guide.

Roger said: “Everards, Batemans, Bathams, Holden’s and Titanic are five stalwarts of British brewing history, and a credit to the Midlands. It is a testament to the continuing quality of their beer that they remain relevant and popular in the modern day and continue to meet the demands of today’s consumers.

“Our family brewers are often overlooked flag bearers for real ale and have fascinating stories to tell. The five included breweries have centuries of fascinating history under their belts, and it was a delight to research and compile their stories in this book. I look forward to readers coming along on this journey and learning more about their favourite brews.”

The book is out now and can be ordered from the CAMRA website.