AN INDEPENDENT craft brewery that started life in a garage is taking its business on the road this summer as it looks to reach thousands of new customers at festivals, sporting events and food shows.

Vibrant Forest, based in Hardley in the New Forest, will tour the country for the first time with its distinctive horsebox bar, serving its award-winning beers at a packed programme of events stretching from Southampton to Liverpool.

Founded in 2011 by Kevin Robinson, the brewery has grown from a one-man operation into a well-established name, with its beers now stocked in pubs, restaurants and shops across the UK and Europe.

Alongside its brewing operation, it also runs a popular tap room and online shop.

The summer schedule includes appearances at Bath Rugby fixtures, Foodies Festivals in Brighton, Winchester and Bath, The Big Eat in Southampton, the Craft Beer Expo in Liverpool, Beaulieu Motor Museum and Smoked & Uncut Garden Parties hosted by The Pig hotels.

General manager Ryan Dack said: “Our Tap Room is a very special place where friends and family make great memories together. We’re so excited to bring a slice of our vibe to this great line up of festivals and sporting events this year. Vibrant Forest is all about community and good beer, so when you see our shoebox bar out and about come and say hello.”

The brewery is also sponsoring this year’s South Coast Wine Festival and the Hythe Raft Race.

Founder Kevin Robinson said: “Vibrant Forest has come a long way from the early days in my garage. We’re proud to be able to sponsor and support events that bring joy to so many people. Bringing people together is what I always wanted for the brewery.”

Festival-goers will be able to sample favourites including Pupa, Dapple, Treeline and Coppice, alongside Mooncross, a special hazy IPA brewed to celebrate the brewery’s 15th anniversary and named after the garage where the business first began.