Beer Hunter Michael Jackson dies

Top beer expert Michael Jackson died last week aged 65. He had dedicated more than 30 years to the pursuit and documentation of the world's finest beers and whiskies, and wrote many books on both subjects.

Jackson became known as the most widely-published and influential author on beer. He developed a cult TV series known as The Beer Hunter, and contributed to countless publications. He was especially well-known for his particular passion - the speciality brews of Belgium, which prompted his bestselling Great Beers of Belgium.

MA beer writer Roger Protz said: "I'm in Germany at a beer conference and when I announced he was dead people were totally shocked - he was just so well known. He was the best - and always will be the best. His knowledge of beer is unsurpassable.

"His genius was to be able to write simply and beautifully about beer. He was a very private person but I enjoyed his company."

A private funeral will be held on 14 September. A memorial service will be held later.

For further appreciation of Michael Jackson, see www.beerwriters.co.uk.