How to beat the World Cup fizzy beer shortage? Drink more real ale 

Beer lovers across the nation are worried. Last week, a carbon dioxide shortage was revealed after an abnormally high number of factory closures. In a crisis affecting much of northern Europe, the UK was hit hardest.

A spokesman for the British Beer and Pubs Association was concerned: "Supply issues here in the UK are being further complicated by a combination of planned plant shutdowns and unexpected equipment failure."

Yesterday, things became even more jittery, as food wholesaler Booker announced it was rationing beer and cider due to the shortages. Customers of Booker, which is owned by Tesco and favoured by restaurants and bars, were limited to 10 cases of beer and five of cider or soft drinks. 

It's not an ideal time for a beer dearth, for customers or pubs. With Britain seeing its hottest temperatures of the year, and England performing above expectations at the World Cup, there's no better time to soak up some sun with a refreshing beer in one of our country's finest institutions: the pub. 

"We hope it won't be as disastrous as some people are claiming, that it's all a bit of scaremongering," said Tom Stainer, chief communications officer of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). "We don't want it to impact on pubs, because a lot of their operations rely on CO2."

CO2 is important to the production of "fizzy" beers, particularly lager, and there are fears the shortage might keep punters away from beer gardens and World Cup screenings this summer. But Stainer has a message for those considering staying away: "don't avoid pubs this summer; there will be beer for the World Cup." 

The answer, of course, is real ale. "Try it," says Stainer. "It undergoes natural fermentation, so doesn't require CO2 in the process. It's easier to serve these beers without using CO2 in the pumps, too."  

For Stainer, those looking to stay refreshed this summer should broaden their minds to the appeal of real ales, which are not all flat or warm. "There are a lot of pale ales and golden ales, pale hoppy beers, which are great and refreshing in the summer. Double IPAs are very hoppy and hazy, they're a nice summer drink. Some are grapefruity, some are lemony. 

"There's also real cider and perry, which are still but extremely thirst-quenching. You can definitely enjoy the pub this summer without drinker lager - the range is huge," Stainer adds.

The beauty of real ale, for Stainer, is in the boundless variety available in this country. And with 1,600 breweries producing a vast array of beers, there's something for everyone. "Get to your local pub and try your local beers," says Stainer. "Any pub with good beer and knowledgeable staff will do." 

CAMRA's expert does have a couple of recommendations for pubs combing excellent real ale with a special World Cup atmosphere. At the Hare & Hounds in St Albans, all England games will be shown in a marquee alongside a barbecue; while the Spinney Hill in Northampton has drinks deals throughout the World Cup. 

You can also check out CAMRA's online pub guide, whatpub.com, for information on pubs serving real ale and showing football near you.