BELHAVEN, the East Lothian-based brewer, reported its seventh consecutive set of record results today, with a 20.2 per cent increase in first-half profits and the promise of more to come.

Belhaven, Scotland's largest regional brewer, recently began advertising Best on television for the first time, and the firm claimed independent market research had positioned itself as the country's leading ale brand in the pubs trade.

Chief executive Stuart Ross said: "We work constantly to innovate our support of Best both in the media and at point of sale.

"Initiatives in the second half of the year will include extended distribution of branded glassware, branded bar counter bottle openers, an attractive new beer tap handle and an updated can design."

18 December, 2002