THE Lord Mayor of Bradford and real-ale fan Councillor Joanne Dodds had a dream engagement - a visit to a brewery.

The civic head was given a VIP tour of Timothy Taylor's Knowle Spring site in Keighley.

She was shown all the processes used by the historic company to produce its multi-award-winning beers.

"It was absolutely fascinating and I felt really lucky and privileged to be given the opportunity to look round," said Cllr Dodds, who was accompanied by her husband and consort, Robert.

"I've visited other breweries in years gone by but I've always wanted to visit Timothy Taylor's.

"The technology now used in the brewing process is incredible and it was wonderful to see and learn about it first-hand."

Cllr Dodds was met by the company's chief executive, Tim Dewey, and the tour was led by head brewer Peter Ells.

The visit came about after Cllr Dodds met Taylor's representatives at the Keighley Business Awards in June.

She had requested beer instead of champagne to toast the winners.

"I don't drink wine or champagne so the team gave me some Boltmaker, which was lovely!" she said.

Jane Jenkins, head of marketing at Timothy Taylor, said the company was delighted to treat the Lord Mayor to a tour on Thursday.