Owls that for bitter

rivalry in steel city?

Rivalry across Sheffield's footballing divide is set to take a bitter twist - as two rival beers are launched in the city.

In the blue corner is the Wednesdayite brew for fans of Sheffield Wednesday.

But staunch Sheffield United follower Dave Wickett has hit back by producing the Unitedite beer.

Jim Harrison, of Thornbridge Brewery, came up with the idea of the blue and white brew to support Wednesday, known as the Owls.

Some of the profits will go to the Sheffield Wednesday Supporters Society.

Kelham Island Brewery boss Dave Wickett supporter of United (the Blades) then retaliated.

Harrison said: 'We first launched a beer with the help of Kelham with Hirsty's No9 (named after David Hirst ex-Wednesday and England).

'It sold incredibly well in bottles throughout Sheffield and Dave Wickett had to counter that with a Currie's No.10 (named after Tony Currie).

'However, not surprisingly, it was Hirsty who won the beer stakes, not for the first time.

'The difference is this time the beer will be in draught form and you will be able to go into pubs around town and sample the brews.'

Simon Webster, of Thornbridge, said: 'We think Wednesdayites will love this. It's very light in colour but fulsome in flavour and we're sure it will be a winner.'

He added: 'Although the Blades are top of the league and the Owls, at the moment a little further down, we are certain Wednesdayite is more akin to the Premiership of beers!'

Wickett said: 'As an award-winning brewery we are certain Unitedites all over the city will love this beer and help us win another award with this drink.'

Both beers make their debuts at the Sheffield (Steel City) Beer Festival this week.

Any landlords wishing to order a barrel of either cask should call Lauren on 0114 249 4804.