March - April 2006 FREE, PLEASE TAKE ONE BlueBlue BellBell atat MaxeyMaxey WinsWins PubPub ofof TheThe YearYear Membership Ramblings from the Update (Stand-in) Editor Much of this issue is devoted to National Pubs Week activities. I'm sure that many Hello and a special welcome to our oldest other pubs did something during the week member, 92 year old Jack Colclough, who to encourage more people to visit them. has just renewed his membership. Also hello After all, the main idea of NPW is to get and welcome to the 24 new and 11 rejoining more people visiting and enjoying pubs in members, but as 75 members did not renew the lean month of February. Hopefully, next branch membership now stands at 2535. year, more of those pubs will let us know Could I ask anyone who did not renew to what they are doing so that we can help to drop me an email, or a letter to say why you advertise them. didn't renew, as without any feedback we will have no idea what we may be doing wrong? The next issue of BAE will hit the streets at As at the end of February there are twenty the start of May, the month when we try to members paying by direct debit who we have encourage everyone to try Mild Ale. If your lost! How you may ask, well last time they pub regularly stocks milds or will do so in moved house they didn’t tell us. May then please contact me so that we can Anyone who thinks they are still a member let everyone know where they can find a pint. and have not been receiving their monthly The bad news for real ale this month is that we copy of “What's Brewing”, email, post or have lost the fight for Gales Horndean brew- telephone me with your current address ery as Fullers will close it at the end of March. details so that we can resume delivery. With spring almost here, and summer just CAMRA Chief Executive Mike Benner said: round the corner, don’t forget that gift “This is a black day for the people of memberships for those hard to buy for friends Wessex who fought so hard only to be let and relatives are a great idea, only £18, or down so badly.” £21 for joint membership, (£10, or £13 “We are appalled at Fullers decision. joint, if 60+ or under 26), and the recipient Thousands of supporters rallied behind the will hopefully buy you a pint as well! Wessex branches of CAMRA when a Save As usual there are several discounts available Gales Campaign was launched following the to CAMRA members, including the CAMRA shock takeover announcement in November. Clothing range and ‘Express’ by Holiday But Fuller’s has simply brushed the Inn, CDs and DVDs. For more information overwhelming public concern aside and see the CAMRA website continued with its own agenda.” http://www.camra.org.uk in the special offers area of the members section. “Fullers justified the closure by saying it If you have any membership expects to make savings of around £3 mil- questions/queries please telephone me on lion. This is a small amount to gain in return 0870 334 0327 or email membership@real- for destroying a century and a half of ale.org.uk Hampshire’s heritage and dealing a blow to Cheers all fans of Gales beers.” Daryl Ling Closer to home, CAMRA has lost a very good friend in Alan Ovenall. Harry

www.real-ale.org.uk 3 DIARY DATES

MARCH MAY Mon 13th, 8:30pm Committee Meeting. Mon 8th, 8.30pm. Committee Meeting, Coalheavers Arms. Royal Oak, Walton. Sat 18th. Young Members (and non- Sat 20th. Heritage Pub train trip to the members) Pub Crawl in Stamford. Meet at Black Country visiting pubs selling milds Peterborough railway station at 12.15pm. including the Old Swan at Netherton. Tour around some of Stamford's great pubs Contact Mick for details. including The Periwig, The Otters Pocket Fri 26th, 7pm. Working party to and The Green Man with a stop-off to Beer Festival. watch the Six Nations England v's Ireland match. Arrive back in Peterborough approx. 10.30pm. Contact Lauren for further details. Sat 18th Heritage Pub Train Trip to Macclesfield & Bolton via Stoke-on-Trent for two National Inventory pubs and six Nearly the Best GBG pubs. Contact Mick for details. Sun 26th Sunday Lunch trip to Willoughby Freehouse in the Arms, Little Bytham. Leaving Brewery Tap 12 noon and stopping off for a quick pint on the way. Contact Kevin if you want Country Sunday lunch. Bluebell at Whaplode St Catherine. APRIL Landlord John Lusher and his partner Jenny Mon 3rd, 8:30pm Open Beer Festival Green enjoyed an evening out in London, Meeting. Drapers Arms. compliments of the Morning Advertiser North Brink Brewery, Wisbech, Tue 11th, 8:30pm Committee Meeting, when they were nominated for an award. Cherry Tree The Best Pub Awards 2006 ceremony was Tel: 01945 583160 Sun 23rd. Fen Tour, including the held at the Old Billingsgate Conference Bricklayers Arms, Walk the Dog, Jolly Sailor, Arena in London in February and was Fen Plough and Coalheavers. Leaves Peterborough at 12.30. attended by 1,500 industry notables. Available all The Bluebell had reached the final and was amongst eight others in line for Best year round Freehouse in the Country. Competition was very intense and the overall winner was the Contact Kevin on 0870 334 0622 or email Ivy House, Chalfont St Giles, [email protected] PLEASE BOOK EARLY FOR TRIPS Buckinghamshire. John and Jenny have run TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT the popular Fenland hostelry for two years Mick Slaughter is on 01733 390598 and said, "The award ceremony was a great Lauren Carey is on 0870 334 0326 spectacle and a sparkling event. Next year Full details of all meetings and socials are we hope to go one better and take the SEASONAL ALES posted on our website as soon as details are national award". Thin Ice 4.7% Jan/Feb Old Wagg 4.0% March/April known. It’s the best way to ensure that you The Bluebell Brewery is located behind the do not miss out. Double Swan 4.5% May/June Mad Dog 4.4% July/Aug pub in Cranesgate South, Whaplode St Barleymead 4.8% Sept/Oct Old Black Shuck 4.5% Nov Catherine. Snickalmas 5.0% Wenceslas Winter Warmer 7.5% Dec 4 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 5 NATIONAL PUBS WEEK Hand & Heart Cheese Club VACANCY Unusual Ten people turned up to the monthly cheese Cheese club meets on the last Thursday of Pub Games club meeting and found some excellent every month. Everyone is welcome; just New Editor wares on offer including such delights as bring yourself and some cheese! Derek Gibson Anyone fancy a game of marbles? award winning Caerphilly mingled with a Needed Not the usual thing you'd hear in a pub is it, creamy Cornish Blue, Curworthy from Due to unexpected circumstances we need a darts or dominoes probably but marbles???? Devon, a rare Single Gloucester and a ched- new editor for BAE. The Marble World Championship is an dar form the Isle of Arran. There were also annual event in the village of Tinsley Green a couple of goat cheeses, one which con- The job involves: in West Sussex based firmly around the tained rosemary, plus some offerings from • Writing editorial. Greyhound pub. A source of local pride our European cheese makers. A first was • Deciding what will be on the front cover since the 1930's when the first champi- achieved when one visitor arrived with two and choosing the lead article. onship was held it still attracts many cheeses from Argentina; the lengths some • Modifying CAMRA press releases for hundreds today. people go to! One contained whiskey and inclusion. Over the years many players and many teams the other capers and whilst showing why • Deciding a basic theme for each issue and have attended the championships many with Argentina is not top of the cheese league it the likely page count. unusual names such as the Tinsley was interesting to try something different. • Chasing members for regular features ansd Tigers, Copthorne Spitfires, Handcross This was just another example of the differ- new articles. Rebels and Toucan Terribles to name but a ing things that took place is National Pubs • Typing articles that are received in hard few. Some of the past players seem to Week and what you can do to encourage copy format. acquire odd names as well, Jim ‘Atomic people to use their pub. The Hand & Heart • Editing, spell-checking and grammar- Thumb’ Longhurst is a case in mind! checking articles and letters. The event takes place on Good Friday • Liaising with our publishers and advertis- (April 14th 2006) ing agency. • Reporting to the general committee. Further details from: [email protected] The ideal candidate will have or www.marblemuseum.org • A good knowledge of English. • A good knowledge of CAMRA aims and policy. • Reasonable computer skills - mainly WP. • Good with people. • Able to work to a timetable. • Access to a computer, e-mail and the internet. • Accessible by phone, e-mail and post (address will be published).

If you think that you fit the bill then please contact our Branch Secretary.

NB Like all CAMRA volunteer jobs this is an unpaid position but reasonable expenses are paid.

6 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 7 THE GREEN MAN Pubs with a Past Established in 1796 as one of the ORIGINAL Stamford Ale Houses - Providing Accomodation, Lunch Time Meals - Hand & Heart, Millfield and Seven Real Ales The 11th Green Man Easter Beer Festival Fri 14th, Sat 15th, Sun 16th & Mon 17th South Lincolnshires largest beer festival Up to 50+ ales, mainly micro-breweries, 5-6 ciders and perry available Live Music and BBQ, weather permitting 29, Scotgate, Stamford, Lincs Tel: 01780 753598 Food & Drink

is what we do best The photo is a rare opportunity to see the information already but would appreciate • Over 60 items on the menu ranging from £7 to £15 (freshly prepared) past social life of the Hand & Heart in any further input. If anyone has memories • Non smoking restaurant seats 36, further seating for food in lounge and bar areas Millfield. Taken in 1949, it shows the about pubs in the town, especially the Red • Sunday lunch menu available, 3 choices of meat £6.95 regulars just about to embark upon their trip Cow or the Engine, please get in touch. • Lunchtime snack menu available - freshly prepared to the races. Some of them we know but if All information will be gratefully received. • Wide range of vegetarian meals starting from £9.95 anyone recognises themselves, their parents Contact John at • Specials include Crocodile, Kangaroo, Duck, Venison or grandparents just drop us a line. [email protected] • Half acre beer garden - Families very welcome The photo is part of a collection given to us or on 01733 700516 • Book your functions, weddings, christenings etc.. a couple of years ago and we may be Steve Williams 4 Real Ales, Marstons Smooth, Guinness, Mild, tempted to publish a couple more before the Peterborough Pub Archivist Strongbow, Fosters, Kronenbourg, Choice of over 40 Malt Whiskies year is out. [email protected] A Crowland Enquiry Ye Olde Dun Cow Inn John Kemmery of Peterborough is Barrier Bank, Cowbit, Spalding, Lincs 01406 380543 researching his family tree and as a sideline has decided to do a bit of research into the Opening Times: Food Serving Times: Mon-Sat 12 - 3pm & 6pm - 11pm Mon-Sat 12 - 2pm pubs of Crowland. He has quite a bit of Sun 12 - 4pm & 7pm - 10.30pm Tues-Sat 6 - 9.30pm Sun 12 - 3pm

8 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 9 NATIONAL PUBS WEEK Nottingham Trip Vine, Market Deeping to make the beer garden more useable. At to the Moot Hall, recommended by Ray but the moment it needs some elbow grease to a little distance from the ground. Once again bring it up to scratch but the potential is well worth the walk. Ray was at the bar so I huge, just like the garden. bought him a pint and I had Waggledance, one of my top 100 beers. The beers on tap include the usual Charles Wells offerings but are complimented by The time getting on we headed off to the It was in October last year that the good other exotic choices (You'll have to visit to Vat and Fiddle. I noticed that Hemlock was news arrived that the Vine at Market on offer and once it was find out what they are!). Deeping had been refurbished and drank and savoured it The pub has benefitted from much structur- reopened. I know its taken me a while to get was time to head to the al work, mainly on the roof which was in around to visiting the place but it was worth coach. The driver had danger of visiting the ground floor if work the wait. Under the steadying hand of Kelvin A good turnout of orders to stop off in hadn't been done quickly. The bar area still and Jo-Ann Neal this snug little Lincolnshire 48 went on the trip Stamford where we retains it's original layout, which makes a boozer is destined for good things. to Nottingham to ended up in the Green nice change in this time of unsympathetic The Neals decided from the start that the savour the local pubs Man, say no more…. refurbishments. Charles Wells have obviously place should be non smoking and it joins the recommended by my spent their money well and have made an ranks of the Draper's Arms and the Crown opposite number Ray excellent choice of hosts. We wish Kelvin Hotel in Stamford among several others in Kirby. First stop was and Jo-Ann all the best for the future. If the Trip to Jerusalem, the area. Comments have, on the whole you're in the area, pop in and say hello. and what a start; this is been favourable and the clean air regime will a must. With Ray giv- continue. One of Kelvin's priorities will be Steve Williams ing everyone a map of Nottingham's best pubs, most people went in their own groups under orders that the Vat and Fiddle was to be the final pub to meet up in as we were parked just a spitting dis- tance away. My own group chose The Salutation as our next pub; packed with CAMRA members and Posh supporters, I thought I was in Now back in Peterborough and thinking what heaven. Next it was on to the Fellows a perfect day we headed off to the Palmy. On Morton and Clayton to try their own beer, entering, Dave the landlord needs no telling Fellows Bitter; and what a good beer it was what is required, a pint of XXXB; thanks too. Dave. All in all an excellent day and Our group now decided to have a respite Nottingham is well worth a visit. My thanks to from beer and go to the match where Notts Ray Kirby for his help on this one. Cheers Ray. County were playing The Posh. The day got better when the Posh won 2 - 1. The match Kevin Fordham over it was time for more real ale and so on Social Secretary

10 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 11 NATIONAL PUBS WEEK The Bell at Stilton For National Pubs Week 2006 CAMRA has painstakingly researched pubs across the country which claim to have played a pivotal role in historical events. After months of delving into the history of the nominated pubs CAMRA, assisted by London School of Economics academic Simon Davies, has short listed 14 pubs which it feels are worthy of being awarded a specially designed Pubs in Time plaque. The one nearest to us on the list is the Bell in Stilton and was the setting of a plaque unveiling on Thursday 23rd February. The guests including a decent clutch of local evening was attended by numerous invited CAMRA members. The guest speaker for the evening was Richard Rowlett, Chairman of Cask Marque Award the Stilton Cheesemakers Association who gave us an insight into the history of the CAMBRIDGESHIRE & PETERBOROUGH CAMRA for Palmerston Arms cheese and its connection with the pub and the village. During the evening we were told Pub of the Year 2005 the story of how Cooper Thornhill, one time landlord of the Bell (and it appears, the Angel opposite) received consignments of “FREE 4 PINT CONTAINER WITH EVERY the cheese from Frances Pawlett, a skilled cheese maker, of Wymondham in 4 PINT TAKEAWAY PURCHASED” Leicestershire. With Cooper's ideal position on the Great North Road and a bit of 17 pint & 40 pint also available coaxing he managed to sell the cheese to the passengers that passed his way. As Stilton was (30 mins notice required) a major stopping off point for the stage coaches it was only a matter of time before choice of up to 15 Ales at 10 minutes notice the fame of the cheese and the village spread and the blue cheese sold in the village 10 Gravity fed Real Ales at all times became known as Stilton cheese. The rest George and Jacklyn Bateman visited the they say is history. 3 Ciders or Perries available Palmerston Arms during National Pubs Week The evening was complimented by some and George was in fine form as he presented excellent hospitality from our hosts (what 50+ Malt Whiskies David with his Cask Marque plaques. else would you expect from one of Britains And that meant there was some free greatest inns!) in the form of ale, plum bread Batemans beer for all those present. and Stilton cheese (what else!). Also on that night, David was offering a half The plaque is on permanent display just of all ten beers on the blackboard and a inside the glass doors of the entrance. Opening Times: Monday 16.00 - 23.00 Tues - Thurs 12:00 - 23:00 pizza supper for the all-in price of just £10 - Steve Williams a bargain! Friday - Saturday 12.00 - 00.00 Sunday 12.00 - 23.30 12 [email protected] 82 Oundle Rd, Peterborough PE2 9PA Tel: 01733 565865 PALMERSTON ARMS COMPETITION

Thankyou to Bram for setting this month’s Send your answers to Harry Morten (con- quiz. Each group of pictures cryptically tact details at the back of BAE) and the clos- A President, A represents the name of a beer that has ing date this time is 9th April. The prize, as Letter to previously been sold in the Palmerston always, is two gallons of real ale to drink at few Beers and Arms. All answers can be found within the your leisure at the Palmerston Arms.Thanks beer index of the 2006GBG. Good Luck! very much Dave. Chasser l’oeuf the Editor 1 Peterborough Rugby Club (Fortress Dear Beer Around Ere, Fengate) are having a beer festival as part of As someone who likes to travel around the the Presidents Day end of season celebra- country enjoying old pubs and decent real tions. Up to 50 Beers will be up for grabs on ale I was slightly taken aback on visiting the 2 Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th April. Blue Bell in Dogsthorpe recently. It's some Most will be from small independent years since I've been to the old place as I 3 breweries together with some old don't get to your city very often. I should favourites.Many one off Festival Specials are say first that I have no complaints about the promised. beer which was truly superb. Special Festival glasses will be available and It was the additions to the lounge and snug card-carrying CAMRA members get in for that concerned me. I am surprised that free (if accompanied by rugby playing Elgoods have allowed the tennants to place a 4 5 penguins). Food and entertainment will be television above the bar area in the Lounge available alongside the rugby and general (presumably to be enjoyed by one and all shenanigans. Older drinkers will remember whether they want to or not). that the Peterborough Beer Festival began its The other thing that appalled me was the days here, so fond memories may be revived. addition of the dart board in the snug. Away from Presidents weekend local brewers Normally the appearance of a dart board is 6 7 Oakham Ales have joined the sponsors at to be welcomed but I don't think it should Fortress Fengate. JHB is generally on sale in be screwed to 16th century panelling. Maybe the bar alongside another draught beer the odd, badly aimed dart will give the old always in top condition. If you have kids woodwork an attractive 'distressed' feel to it younger and older bring them down Sunday and add to its character. mornings to get them egg chasing and join Perhaps they could dispense with the anti- in a vibrant social scene! quated feel altogether in the snug and put up 4 6 1 2 8 7 5 3 9 8 Dave Allett a nice bit of flock wallpaper instead. I'm sure 3 7 5 4 6 9 2 8 1 the odd dart misfire wouldn't cause too many problems then. 2 8 9 1 3 5 7 4 6 Simon Kenston 1 5 6 8 4 3 8 7 2 Pub of the Year Kidderminster 7 3 2 5 9 1 8 6 4 9 On Tuesday 22nd February we presented the 8 9 4 6 7 2 1 5 3 award for Pub of the Year 2006 to Ron and p.s Quite liked the Drapers Arms near the Kathleen Cook at the Blue Bell in Maxey. station and the Palmerston Arms was a 6 2 8 7 1 4 3 9 5 The pub started life as a barn back in 1645 complete revelation. Both of which were new 9 1 7 3 5 6 4 2 8 but is now one of the friendliest pubs you to me. are ever likely to visit. Unlike so many village 5 4 3 9 2 8 6 1 7 10 pubs that are dying because of lack of Here is the answer to the last puzzle. The support by villagers, the Blue Bell is the hub lucky winner this time is Richard Elms of of the village. See picture on the front cover. Orton Longueville. 14 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 15

OBITUARY Sundays Traditional Roast Restaurant & takeaway Alan Ovenall “SLOW ROASTED FAST FOOD” Quality wholesome food Sample menu: has left us Sunday Dinner (everyday) £3.89 Roast Rolls Reg £1.99 It was with great sadness that we learned of After just over a year (Beef, Turkey or Pork) Lrg £2.99 the passing away of a long established battling with the Full English B/fast £2.99 member of our organisation, Alan Ovenall, on tumours he was sud- Served until 11.30am Tuesday 21st February. denly taken from us 3 Cumbergate, Peterborough I first met Alan at the Peterborough Beer by an aneurism. Just off Cathedral Square, next to Niros! Festival when it was held in the Wirrina sports Many people will 01733 554 334 hall over twenty years ago. It was by chance remember Alan for Please call us to pre-book your larger orders that he was in the company of a his pub activities, Alan on the front of the OPENING TIMES former working colleague of mine and we were particularly when he Beer Festival 8.30am - 5.00pm Mon-Fri introduced. That was the start of a long was in full flow at Programme in 1997 9.00am - 5.30pm Sat 11.30am - 4.30pm Sun ! standing deep friendship over the forthcoming the Whittlesey Straw FREE HOMEMADE PUDDING years. We each had similar interests in our love Bear festival. WITH ‘Sunday Dinner’ AFTER 2.30pm of real ale and pubs and he reignited my inter- A rendering of ‘Farmer’s Boy’ would endear with this voucher *Valid until June ‘06 est in watching our local Posh football team. the entire company to him. Nicknamed After a number of years in the retail and associ- ‘’ by the local Whittlesey crowd he ated business’ Alan took on the temporary part used to love nothing better that going over time running of the British Sugar Club due to there to drink in the pubs, the Boat being his the sudden loss of the then club Steward. This favourite. His humour was was the start of a number of years in the legendary and nights spent in his company gave licensed trade. He took on his first pub down many people a great deal of pleasure, me in Bedfordshire at Stotfold, the Fox and Duck. included. The years he spent at the BSC were A return to Peterborough saw him for a short probably his finest. The annual inter factory time at another Charles Wells pub, the sports day came to the Peterborough club one Durham Ox in Star Road. From there he year. It was by far the best for years. Alan had moved to take on the stewardship of organised a beer festival to be held over the Freeman’s Sports and Social Club. Heading weekend of the sports day. The congratulations back to his starting point, a successful time from the large number of visitors were in running the British Sugar Club was only ended abundance. For many years he was involved by the closure of that facility. A spell at the with the Peterborough Beer Festival when his local Conservative Club as steward ended his time allowed. During my early years as editor career in the drinks industry though for a brief of this magazine he was my advertising contact. time he served at the Plough in Farcet Fen His distinctive characteristic was the wearing of before deciding to call it a day. a flat cap that stood him out in many a crowd. His last job was one that he enjoyed a great Jokes about woodpeckers were the norm. There deal; driving one of Tescos delivery vans to was never a dull moment when Alan was people ordering on the internet. He used to around And I'm sure I speak for many people say he had never been to so many out of town when stating he will be very much missed by all. interesting places. Sadly that was cut short by news that two tumours had grown in his brain. David Murray 18 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 19 CAMRA Young Members

There have been two great young CAMRA a Thai buffet. members events held in Peterborough since Great hospitality at the Tap meant that we the last issue of BAE. Firstly, on 26th were treated to a brewery tour and chat with January, we held a beer tasting and pizza the brewer Wills and there was plenty of night in the Palmerston Arms. It was a Oakham Ales real ales. Eighteen young chance for people to sample half a pint of people turned out and we gained another every beer on the menu. Twenty-three new member. people turned up (unfortunately for two Thankyou to all of the licensees and their they were drivers) and three young people staff who served us all so well. joined CAMRA on the night. Many thanks Our next event is a pub tour of Stamford on to Dave and Tracy at the Palmerston for 18th March for all young people, members their support of this event. or not. This is a great chance to try some of For National Pubs Week a North-South pub Stamford's fabulous pubs. Meet at crawl was held. The idea was to get people Peterborough railway station at 12.15pm or into pubs that they wouldn't normally visit. join us in the Green Man at 1.15pm. The North crawl started in the Hand and Let me know if you are coming along so Heart and visited Bogarts and the Wortley that I can let the pubs know of the Arms on the way to the Brewery Tap. The approximate numbers. South crawl started in the Palmerston and visited the Coalheavers before meeting up Lauren Carey with the North crawl at the Brewery Tap for Young Members Contact THE GOAT Frognall, Deeping St. James, Peterborough, Lincs Graham, Debbie and staff welcome you to The Goat Good food served lunch times and evenings Fine selection of real ales from around the Country, five guest beers on at one time. Ranging from 3% - 7.5% Belgian bottled beers available 50 single malt whiskies & real cider Beer gardens Summer beer festival – late July 01778 347629 20 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 21 NATIONAL PUBS WEEK NATIONAL PUBS WEEK A Fine Night Closed Pubs Walk in Wisbech The main reason behind National Pubs Week is to encourage more people to go to The penultimate event of National Pubs the pub. Which raises the question, why did Week was the presentation of two awards to Steve Williams take us on a tour of closed Elgoods, the local brewery in Wisbech. pubs on Tuesday the 21st? We decided, as it was National Pubs Week, it All joking apart the evening began with a would be more fitting to hold the ceremony choice beer or two in Goodbarns Yard for an in an Elgoods pub rather than the brewery. introduction by Noel Ryland the Chairman A decision to hold it at the Red Lion on Brewery Liaison Officer and Branch Vice and Steve our Tour Guide. The turn out was North Brink, just along from the brewery, Chairman, David Murray. better than expected as the weather had was a masterstroke. The reception and wel- As a gesture of thanks, Elgoods treated been a bit unpredictable earlier in the day come that we got in the pub was first class, everyone in the pub to a free pint of beer and the temperature was decidedly chilly. and a great many thanks go to licensee May 'providing it was brewed at North Brink' as The tour began with a look at the City Arms Turner and her staff for making the evening quoted by Alan Pateman. which had closed only a couple of years ago could quite believe just how many pubs a memorable one. An extremely enjoyable evening was had by followed by some closures from the distant haboured ladies of the evening! Two awards were presented to Elgoods. One all, with good ale, good company and a past. As we walked the streets Steve gave an One story that took my fancy was the one was for Black Dog Mild which had been delicious snack buffet generously laid on by account of some of the happenings that went about the dancing bear who lodged with his selected as champion beer of May. on in some of the pubs including many sto- Cambridgeshire. The second award was for Cheers to many more. ries detailing the less attractive side of Russian owner in the Marquis of Granby, a the beer brewed by our own team from the Dave Murray Victorian Peterborough. I don’t think we long gone beerhouse which once stood near Peterborough Beer Festival, assisted by the to Bishop Creighton’s school. The bear head brewer, for our festival last year. Named started a campaign to save the Railway Inn in apparently broke free from its chain one in honour of a curious mouse, the brew Pontlottyn, Wales. night and rampaged through the streets BAE Gones before being shot by a policeman, its carcass Mousehole Porter had won the Silver Award 15 years ago in the Stouts and Porters Class at the festival. 5 years ago later being acquired by an enterprising land- An early day motion was put forward by MPs lord who ran a pub with a museum full of In attendance to receive the awards were Over 100 MPs put there names to an early day from both sides of the house demanding that real stuffed animals! officials from Elgoods Terry Stork, Paul motion to gurantee us all a full pint. The ale be put in the bar. Local members chose the Our tour finally finished up in the Draper's Marshall and head brewer Alan Pateman. Wheatsheaf (JD Wetherspoons) opened in Shuckburgh Arms in Southwick as Pub of the Arms where we were given the chance to The Black Dog award was made by Deputy Wisbech. Bulldozers moved in to demolish the Year. The old school house in Wittering opened view some old photos of the pubs we’d Regional Director Andrea Briers, and the Bridge. Mousehole Porter award by Elgoods as a pub, the Phoenix but the Huntsman at passed along the way. The appearance of a Connington closed for good. Victorian Ordnance Survey map of the town 10 years ago centre proved to be quite a draw with many Our lady members decided to survey pub loos 20 years ago of my fellow drinkers pouring over the very when we went on bus crawls. Oakham Ales The Harrier was awarded best New Build Pub by different landscape on view. expanded into the next industrial unit (Still in the CAMRA Pub Preservation Group. We I think all of the people present enjoyed Oakham at this time) and started making their advised everyone to ignore the newly announced what could only be described as an unusual new beer Bishops Farewell (which was the festival Budweiser made by Watneys. Greenall Whitley evening and I think that the branch should special at the 1995 Peterborough Beer Festival). bought Davenports for £38m making them the arrange similar events in future, especially in CAMRA was twenty five years old. The Marsh largest regional brewer (bigger than S&N) with the summer months when we wouldn’t have Harrier in Stamford reverted to a traditional 1668 pubs. The fate of Batemans was still to wrap up quite so well! three-roomed pub. Peterborough Branch unknown with George still trying to raise funds. announced its website. Local member, Jeff Evans, Bernard Miles

22 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 23 New height for Stamford pub It looks like the Periwig in Stamford may be Pub News Around ’Ere going up in the world. Owner Mick Thurlby has applied to change the use of the top A T HOLYOAK floor of the pub to create a new lounge. The It's a Charity Thing quick exit. Charles Wells, the owners have pub will undergo an extensive refurbishment Ann & Jess of the Cherry Tree have been up said the pub should be open again by the PLUMBING & HEATING and will be closed for a short time. to their old tricks again by staging a Panto time you read this. Meanwhile the nearby RAFA club, bought back in January. This has become something by Mr Thurlby recently has been given plan- of a tradition at the Oundle Road pub and Club closed CORGI REGISTERED ning permission to convert the Grade II list- saw the locals donning costumes and the odd The ongoing saga of the Foxcovert Bar in ed building into a pub. He believes the new lick of grease paint in the name of charity. Werrington looks set to end in misery for venture will cater for those more discerning 01733 208437 We send our best wishes to the 'Dynamic many regular users. The bar has been ear- customers. Duo' who have spent many years generating marked for closure as the building is part of cash for numerous good causes. the school expansion scheme. Locals have Another marquee on the Embankment? OR The Cherry Tree isn't the only pub doing its put up a long and fierce campaign to stop It would appear that Mr Hook, local man bit either. The Royal Arms in Eye Road, their favourite watering hole been closed but and owner of Charters has applied for plan- Newark Hill have also been busy adding to council officials are adamant that they will 07860 569389 ning permission to erect a marquee on the the coffers of another good cause. During a have their way, and that the refurbishing of river bank next to Charters. I hope that Mr quiz night in early January over £1,000 was the sports facilities will go ahead. Hook is aware that this decision may cause 192 STONALD ROAD raised towards a breast cancer scanner at some confusion in the last week in August Edith Cavell . The Six Ringers in Club in Danger when another part of the Embankment has a Leverington made a contribution of £450 to City hospital staff are seriously browned off similar arrangement! WHITTLESEY the Wisbech branch of Diabetes UK following at having their club labelled a “working a New Year's disco. Well done to all involved. men’s club for drinking and smoking which And Finally could encourage anti-social behaviour”, Oundle landlord John Saunders is beside Two Fires despite the club providing facilities for himself with worry at the disappearance of Lunchtime diners at the prestigious George karate, salsa and aerobic classes. It would ARE YOU MISSING OUT? his prize cow! Not a real one you under- Hotel in Stamford were evacuated as a pre- appear that hospital trust bosses are keen to stand but a life-size plastic model called Only the beer-stained caution when embers were spotted coming have the club shut down and the land used Georgina. He suspects that rustlers have from the chimney outside. Fire services were for parking spaces even though the club has copy left? been into the beer garden of the George and on the scene in no time at all to extinguish been in use for 32 years and has nearly 500 have whisked the poor girl off to sunnier the flames. members. Unless the situation is resolved the Get climes. Mr Saunders doesn't like to make a A more serious conflagration occurred at the club will close at the end of March this year. beef about things usually but this latest much loved Boot & Shoe in South episode has left him udderly upset. We at Luffenham in February. Barman, Andy Good News in Wimblington CAMRA would like to offer our condolences Burrows was shaken by an explosion in the Since receiving 'Good Beer Guide 2006 sta- to Mr Saunders and we hope that he and his landlord's garage adjacent to the pub one tus at The Hammer in March pub licensees bovine wanderer are reunited soon. If any- evening. Fire crews were called and finally Mick and Alison have moved on to run the delivered to your door! one can help please call the pub on 01832 left seven hours later. The landlord's accom- Anchor in Wimblington some three miles 272324. We hope that if Georgina turns up modation has been completely gutted and from their last pub. in time for the next issue of Beer Around For a year (6 issues) send six 35p stamps the pub has suffered some smoke damage. Mick has been busy re-introducing cask ales 'Ere we will be able to milk the story even or a £2.10 cheque/PO payable to to the regulars and is serving beers from further. “Peterborough CAMRA” and your Pub Closed Nethergate, Woodfordes, Newby Wyke and Keep the news coming in address to:- The Greyhound in is closed at other local East Anglian breweries. Steve Williams Daryl Ling the present time following a serious invasion Food is served Wed to Sat evenings and 07802 896641 19 Lidgate Close by yobs. The gang arrived around 9.30pm Wed- Sun lunchtimes with live music on [email protected] Orton Longueville one Friday night and through various actions offer twice a month. The pub has a large Peterborough PE2 7ZA caused the temporary manager to make a beer garden and car park. 24 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 25 Difference 6. There's only one beer - well almost. Draught Pilsner Urquell is sold Cider & Perry Awards almost everywhere - try to find a "Tanka" Prague pub if you can as the beer is then unpas- teurised. Sandford in which Thatchers is situated. The It's nothing like the bottled version in the output is considerably greater than that of UK, fresh tasting and sold only a little below Broadoak and the business is very much still cellar temperature so much less gassy. A few in the control of the Thatcher family. I made Pubs pubs do sell alternative beers such as Budvar, the 2004 Bronze Award presentation to Staropramen, Gambrinus and Kozel but it's John Thatcher for Cheddar Valley, a There's little point in doing a guide to likely rare to find a bar selling more than two distinctively coloured cider of orange hue, pubs in Prague because there are so many beers. On the plus side, we did find five again very popular at Peterborough Beer that if you can't find one it's probably micro-breweries but that's for another day. Festivals. because you are still in bed in the hotel. Harry Having spent the night at Weston-super- However, one thing we noted at once was Mare, I travelled across the new Severn that the locals all look English unlike most Bridge on Wednesday morning to Gwynt y of the Continent where they all look, well, Pub Merit Awards Ddraig Cider, based in a 17th century farm Continental and it was that fact which very close to the entrance of the Rhondda prompted me to compare the bars in Prague If you know of a pub in our area that with those in England. deserves a Merit Award then please complete On Tuesday 7th February 2006 I set out Valley. Welsh cider and perry has made con- We arrived on a Tuesday evening in the following form and send it to our from home in Shrewsbury to make five siderable strides in the last five or six years and this company had already won a Gold at November and walked into a bar that Secretary. presentations for the “Cider and Perry turned out to be as big as the Brewery Tap the CAMRA National tastings in Reading for Awards” from the 27th and 28th to find that it was full - so full that we had both cider and perry in 2004 and 2005. I Pub name: Peterborough Beer Festivals. to wait for a table. presented the 2005 Bronze award for their I travelled first to the most distant location, Difference 1. How many pubs in England Black Dragon cider, made solely from Perry’s Cider, located in the picturesque are full on Tuesdays in November? village of Dowlish Wake just outside Kingston Black apples. Most of Gwynt y Pub address/town/village: Ddraig’s apples are sourced from south and Ilminster in south Somerset. Perry’s was Difference 2. Everyone sits at tables. established in 1923. The firm is still run by east Wales. There's no requirement to eat; indeed the the family and I made the presentation to En route to Shrewsbury my final stop was at assumption generally is that you are there to Brook Farm in Wigmore, a small village in George Perry, one of the up and coming drink. And so there's no trouble in full pubs Reason for award: younger generation. The presentation of north Herefordshire, not far from Ludlow. because it's difficult to start a fight when Gold Award 2005 was for Redstreak, a cider Peter Keam is a small producer with a grow- you are sitting down at a table. made from a single variety of apple (most ing reputation for both his cider and perry ciders are blends from two or more apple and I presented him with the 2004 Silver for Difference 3. Almost everyone, young or types). In addition to the cider mills, his dry perry. As with Thatchers, an apple old, male or female drinks pints (well half maturing sheds and a shop there is a very orchard comes right up to the old farm litres) of beer. Typically one barman spends interesting rural museum on site with a large buildings where the fruit is crushed and the all of his time pouring pints for the waiters collection of farming tools and wooden carts. juice matures in barrels. to distribute. Your name: From here I drove north to Clutton in north In two days I motored 466 miles, an According to many websites, prices in Somerset, on the edge of the Mendips and exhausting but interesting run. This trip was Prague have been increasing but... not far from Bath. On an industrial estate only made possible by drinkers at Your phone number here is Broadoak, a much larger producer Peterborough Beer Festival voting for their ...Difference 4. Beer is only about 70p a or e-mail address: than Perry’s. This firm produces Moonshine, favourite cider or perry, so please carry on pint and a good meal can be had for less than £3. much liked at Peterborough Beer Festival voting in future. Difference 5. In England in winter many over the years, for which a Gold Award for pubs are cold. Prague is very cold in 2004 was presented. JOHN LEWIS November but the pubs are all warm. Warm Your membership number: Several miles to the west and not far short of Manager, Cider & Perry Bar and cheap; could that be why they are all Weston-super-Mare lies the village of Peterborough Beerfest full? Finally, 26 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 27 NATIONAL PUBS WEEK It takes all sorts to campaign for real ale

Join CAMRA Today… Just fill in the form below and send, with a cheque (payable to CAMRA ltd) or for Three Months Free mem- The Coalheavers Arms hold regular pub evening. If you fancy your chances as a trivia bership (for those renewing or joining by Direct Debit) complete the Direct Debit Form. All forms should be quizzes but as a change for National Pubs genius then get down to the Coalheavers on addressed to membership secretary, CAMRA, 230 Hatfield Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 4LW. Alternatively Week the questions were all about pubs - Sunday evenings where you will also find a you can join online at www.camra.org.uk. Rates for single membership are £18 and joint £21. Concession rates are available on request. mailny ones in the Peterborough area but large selection of cheeses to nibble at while including ones in soap operas and the like. you ponder over the answers...... Bob Melville was the Quizmaster for the Title Surname Forename(s) Date of Birth ...... P’tner Surname Forename(s) Date of Birth ...... CAMRA asks clubs to Address Postcode ...... self-nominate for prestigious title Tel. no.(s) CAMRA is asking club members across tered clubs that are all eligible to enter the I wish to join the Campaign for Real Ale, and agree to abide by the Memorandum and Articles of Association. Great Britain to grasp the opportunity to be competition. The winner of the Club of the named as Club of the Year 2007. Year Competition 2006 will be announced I enclose a cheque for...... Signed...... Date ...... Unlike CAMRA’s Pub of the Year competi- in May 2006 but competition judges are Applications will be processed within 21 days tion, clubs are permitted to nominate them- eager to receive self-nominations for next Instruction to your Bank or ¢ Building Society to pay by Direct Debit selves to be entered. year’s competition . This Guarantee should be detached Please fill in the form and send to: Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. 230 Hatfield Road, St. Albans, Herts. AL1 4LW and retained by the payer. CAMRA Club of the Year Co-ordinator and In 2005 the title was taken by The Hastings Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society Originator’s Identification Number To The Manager Bank or Building Society The Direct Debit National Executive member, John Holland, Club, Lytham St Anne’s, Lancashire. John 926129 Address Guarantee said: “The CAMRA Club of the Year award Holland said “The Hastings Club was very FOR CAMRA OFFICIAL USE ONLY I This Guarantee is offered by all Banks This is not part of the instruction to your Bank or Building Society and Building Societies that take part in the Direct Debit Scheme.The efficiency has become the gold standard by which real impressive. We were made to feel very Membership Number Postcode and security of the Scheme is monitored and protected by your ale in clubs is measured. It is now in it's welcome by the staff and members when we Name own Bank or Building Society. Name (s) of Account Holder (s) I third decade and the quality of nominations went to judge this fantastic club. The dis- Postcode If the amounts to be paid or the payment dates change CAMRA will notify you 10 working days in advance gets better and better showing just how tinctly different areas lead easily to the ideal Instruction to your Bank or Building Society detached andretained thissection Bank or Building Society account number of your account being debited or as Please pay CAMRA Direct Debits from the account detailed on otherwise agreed. good the real ale business is in clubs”. situation for a mixed clientele of different this Instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain I If an error is made by CAMRA or with CAMRA and, if so, will be passed electronically to my your Bank or Building Society, you are “Unlike CAMRA’s Pub of the Year competi- backgrounds, ages and sex – just the thing Branch Sort Code Bank/Building Society guaranteed a full and immediate tion where judges assess the whole pub, in we in CAMRA applaud.” refund from your branch of the Signature(s) amount paid. I Club of the Year we are only interested in Nominations should be sent to Ian Charlton Reference Number You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by writing to your Bank or Date commitment to quality real ale.” c/o CAMRA Headquarters, 230 Hatfield Building Society. Please also send a copy of your letter to us. CAMRA estimates that Great Britain has Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 4LW. Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit Instructions for some types of account approximately 30,000 licensed and regis- Deadline for self nomination is 31st March. 28 [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk 29 BRANCH CONTACTS

Branch Committee The next issue of BAE will Secretary: Harry Morten Beer Around ’Ere be published on Monday 49 St Margarets Rd, Editor: Position vacant. Send 24th April 2006. Peterborough PE2 9EA copy to secretary We must have your stories, 01733 764296 news and advertisements by 01733 422279 (w) Distribution: Noel Ryland Friday 7th April. 07900 056940 (m) 0870 334 0322 Late copy cannot be 01733 564296 (fax) guaranteed entry. [email protected] Advertising: Neil Richards Please contact Neil Richards 01536 358670 on 01536 358670 for all of Chairman: Noel Ryland [email protected] 0870 334 0322 your advertising needs. 01733 422570 (w) Magazine 07944 869656 (m) Steve Williams pubs-offi- [email protected] & Advertising Production: [email protected] or 07802 Dan Wheeler 896641 is always looking for contact 01733 751286 pub news. Treasurer: Paul Beecham creative 0870 334 0321 [email protected] branding [email protected] Please send stories and other Postal Distr: Daryl Ling copy to Harry Morten, solutions Vice Chair: David Murray 0870 334 0327 [email protected], 0870 334 0323 01733 764296, 07900 t 01733 751286 [email protected] Brewery Liaison Officers 056940. e [email protected] Blencowe Catherine Barr w www.tamoko-design.co.uk Social Sec: Kevin Fordham 0870 334 0645 Beer Around ‘Ere is 0870 334 0622 Blue Bell John Hunt published by Peterborough & [email protected] 0870 334 0646 District Branch of CAMRA Elgoods David Murray Copyright (c) 2006, The The Admiral Wells Pubs Officer: Steve Williams 0870 334 0641 Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. 0870 334 0329 Grainstore Lew Clayton [email protected] Holme 0870 334 0643 Views or comments Oakham Ales Dave Allett expressed in this publication Press Officer: Derek Gibson 0870 334 0642 Easter Beer Festival April 14th - 17th 0870 334 0325 may not necessarily Two Halves Dawn Mason [email protected] be those of the Editor or of 0870 334 0647 CAMRA. Good Friday Easter Sunday Young Members: Ufford Ales Matt Mace Lauren Carey 0870 334 0644 5pm - 11pm 12pm - 10.30pm 0870 334 0326 young-members@real- Trading Standards ale.org.uk Peterborough Saturday Easter Monday 01733 453532 12pm - 11pm 12pm-11pm Membership: Daryl Ling Cambridgeshire 0870 334 0327 0845 3030666 [email protected] Lincolnshire 01522 552401 CAMPAIGN 20 Beers & Ciders Festival Org: Mike Lane Northampton 0870 334 0621 01604 707900 FOR Live music Friday & Saturday nights & Monday afternoon festival-organiser@real- REAL ALE ale.org.uk Hogroast Friday & Saturday

30 [email protected]