A WORCESTER-based illustrator is the creative force behind new designs for UnBarred Brewery’s latest release of cans.

Josh Neal has designed the eye-catching artwork for The Single Hop, Single Fruit series.

The third and final can was recently released, which includes Pineapple and Azacca, Passionfruit and Citra and Grapefruit and Simcoe.

Mr Neal, who studied at Worcester Sixth Form College before going on to complete a degree in illustration at Plymouth University, said the opportunity came about by chance.

He originally found out about UnBarred from city-based bloggers Lydia Johnson and Lorna Morris on their Liquor Trips blog.

Mr Neal said: “I actually saw a Liquor Trips post about UnBarred. I really wanted to try their milkshake IPA, however it was sold out when I got to Hop Lord’s.

"Their style of can really appealed to me. Once I saw the incredible artwork displayed on their website, I thought it would be worth a shot contacting UnBarred to see if they were interested in collaborating.

"The team responded quickly, and it kind of snow-balled from there. I was really chuffed with the positive response

“The Grapefruit and Simcoe is my favourite so far. Friends and family have been really helpful along the way with feedback, and UnBarred were too which made the process smoother.

"They gave me free reign with the designs – the can was my canvas. I just had to get the right balance between my artwork and representing their brand.

"I’d love to collaborate with them again in future. They’ve been really supportive and great promoting my work which has given me more confidence as an artist.

"For me part of the joy of walking in to a bottle shop is getting to see all the artwork on the beers.

"I see more art in a bottle shop than in some galleries.”

To see more of Josh’s work visit josh-neal.com.