While university-trained beer scientists wrestle with chemical formulae and computer programmes in their latest push to discover the best beer in the world, one tall, beared and sandle-wearing English gent reckons he has already found it - and is getting on with producing the latest batch.

Perhaps “quietly” isn’t the word.

In between high pitched shrieks, relentless clanking noises and a constantly ringing phone, master brewer Phil Goacher talks about his passion for producing ales - using strictly natural ingredients - from his Tovil-based Goacher’s Brewery which have become popular with Kentish drinkers and connoisseurs world-wide.

“The challenge is to produce a consistently good quality beer. Where we differ from other brewers is we brew the beer to suit our own palates. We have this strange idea that it should be enjoyable to drink.

“When you have one you should think 'cor, I fancy another one’."

Goacher’s Brewery may be synonymous with the brewing traditions of a bygone age but 25 years after launching the business with his wife, it is thriving.

See this week's Kent Messenger for full interview