Meetal Patel and John Leiper came up with the idea of combining their love for beer and honey in the pub one night.

Hackney Gazette: Meetal Patel and John Leiper who producec Pearly Queen beer with their honeyMeetal Patel and John Leiper who producec Pearly Queen beer with their honey (Image: Archant)

The urban bee-keepers went on to set up the Pearly Queen Beer Company and believe their beer is unique, as it is the only one on the market made using honey from London bees.

They launched their Honey Pale Ale at the BIB Taproom in Gillet Street, Dalston last week – which is the sole stockist at present.

“Unlike traditional honey beers the pale ale isn’t sweet,” Leiper told the Gazette.

“Our honey compliments the beer without overpowering it.

“Our ambition is to keep and protect bees and help educate the public about these wonderful creatures and their alarming decline.”

The pair have already seen success as finalists in the ‘Beautiful Brew’ category of the Urban Food Awards 2016, organised by the Mayor of London and London Food Link.