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March / April 2009 FREE, PLEASE TAKE ONE SSPPRRIINNGG IINNTTOO AACCTTIIOONN!! BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:31 Page 2 BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:31 Page 3
CAMPAIGNING SIBA Local Breweries and LocAle
SIBA, the Society of Independent Brewers, locally-brewed real ale, reducing the number issued their latest Local Brewing Industry of beer miles and supporting your local Report on 23rd February. breweries’ – recognises the value of this and offers some welcome customer orientation.” It shows that local brewers (defined as producing less than 30,000Hl a year) have LocAle Update increased year-on-year sales by 7% in 2008 and that new micro-brewers have added an Hi Folks, additional 3% volume to that. Many thanks to all those who have been in Once again these results run counter to the touch regarding local ales. However there picture for the brewing industry as a whole. must still be many more that I haven’t The British Beer and Pub Association’s spoken to or visited yet? So do please get in quarterly figures from its own members touch with me so that I can get the show a fall in 2008 of 5.5%, compared necessary publicity material to you in time with 2007. In other words, local cask ale for the official launches. sales are still rising in a shrinking market and local bottled beer sales have shown I can now reveal that the launch for the unprecedented growth. Sales turnover has Peterborough & District LocAle scheme will increased by an average of 20% yet leading be phased in over different areas of the brand sales prices have increased by branch over the next few weeks. The first only 5.3%. area will be the Peterborough City area and will occur during Cask Ale Week with a There can be no better reason for any pub function on Thursday April 9th at the to sell real ales from local brewers than that Brewery Tap, Westgate in their new function they are selling faster than any other beers. room, so please all those who are joining the SIBA also asked local brewers how scheme do come along. committed they were to environmental sustainability and, as expected, the results are The Stamford Launch will take place on encouraging. Almost 80% are committed to Thursday April 23rd (St George’s Day) and reducing energy and over 70% to reducing will be in the form of a Pub Crawl visiting water usage. Around 60% want to use local all the pubs taking part in the scheme. There ingredients and reduce the delivery area. will also be a launch in Wisbech area, at a As the report says, “Local ale wins support date to be announced. on ethical grounds because of its perceived Looking forward to meeting you all again at environmental and community benefits: the functions. reduced “food miles”, sustainable production, and contribution to local John Rice economies. There is also a particular LocAle Officer strength in its genuine provenance, in an age when the use of brand names by larger breweries increasingly gives no guarantee of local origin. CAMRA’s LocAle accreditation scheme – ‘to promote pubs that sell
www.real-ale.org.uk 3 BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:31 Page 4 THE GREEN MAN 29 Scotgate, Stamford 01780 753598 Established in 1796 as one of the ORIGINAL Stamford Ale Houses - Providing Accommodation, Lunch Time Meals and Seven Real Ales
40+ Real Ales from mainly INCS TEN Y UTH L IN EARS SO PUB micro breweries THE G LARGEST BEE OOD STIVAL 8 Real Ciders R GU BEER FE IDE! 20+ Bottled Belgian Beers Draught Leffe Blonde, Adnams Sundrift and Amstell.
Beer Festival Opening Times Friday to Monday: 12noon to 12midnight
Live Music Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Covered outside bar
Bed and Breakfast Available
Lunchtime Food - 12 to 2.30pm BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:31 Page 5
CHAIRMAN’S CORNER Chairman’s Corner
Hello Folks once again. Since our last developments, the edition hit the street (which wasn’t that long plans for North ago I know) the recession has taken a firm Westgate seem to hold of the pub and beer industry in general. have been altered or revised so One of the emerging growing practices many times; I which CAMRA have slammed is the reckon the imposing of restrictive covenants on developers have up-for–sale properties to stop them being forgotten what used as pubs in the future. This practice is the original being imposed by the big brewers and idea of the especially pubcos. They state in their defence exercise was in the first that it can be a life saver in an area which is place. Come on local ‘overpubbed’. councillors’ wake up – or are you not aware we’re in the middle of the biggest slump for CAMRA argue that this practice can destroy years? So it ain’t gonna happen for a good for ever potentially viable pubs, and is anti- while yet! competitive. One of the major pubcos, Enterprise Inns has a glut of pubs on their On a slightly personal and somewhat prickly hands that have been closed for some time, subject, I saw that I had achieved further either waiting for a new licensee or facing fame through the local evening paper. the auctioneer’s gavel. They have told MPs: My rejection of an offer of a free whisky by Tom the licensee at one of my local pubs ‘We tend to put these covenants in if an area is was documented by one of their scribes. substantially over pubbed. Were we to have a Such is fame even though half of the facts pub for sale in a village or suburb where there were not quite true. In the event mentioned were already five or six pubs, it may be in the I was on my way home from work. On New interests of all other licensees including our Years day! own for this property to be sold not as a pub’. Come on laddie you did get one fact correct They seem to have forgotten that they are that I’m a Scot and I have only been forced part of the reason for the closure of these to work on January 1st once in my lifetime pubs in the first place! and do not intend to repeat that practice ever again. Oh and the said spirit is indeed On a brighter note word has just reached me from Japan but did not pass my lips! at time of writing that Bogart’s in Peterborough city centre has been sold. No Cheers to all further details were available other than the new owners intended to retain the building as a pub much in the style of recent years, and also the former Italian restaurant. We David Murray await further developments. Talking of Branch Chairman
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DIARY DATES Newcastle, approx 120 ales. Check Diary Dates www.cannybevvy.co.uk for further details. Thu 9th – Mon 13th Charters Easter Beer Festival, approx 50 real ales. APRIL Green Man, Breweriana Collectors Fair, Fri 10th – Mon 13th Sat 4th Stamford, Easter Beer Festival, approx Coal Heavers Arms, from noon. 40 real ales. National Cask Mon 6th - Mon 13th Harboro’ Hotel, Ales Week. Fri 10th – Mon 13th Melton Mowbray, Easter Beer Festival, LocAle Scheme, Peterborough Area Thu 9th approx 30 real ales. Launch, Brewery Tap 8pm. 19th Doncaster Branch Committee Meeting, Thu 16th – Sat 18th Wed 15th Beer Festival, The Hub, Chappell Drive, Brewery Tap 8.30pm. Doncaster, approx 90 ales. Check CAMRA Members Fri 17th - Sun 19th www.doncastercamra.org.uk for Weekend & AGM, Eastbourne further details. Winter Gardens East Anglian Beer LocAle Scheme, Stamford Area Wed 22nd – Sat 24th Thu 23rd Festival, Corn Exchange, Bury St Edmunds, Launch. Bus departs Brewery Tap 7pm, over 60 ales. return by 11pm, cost £5. Sat 25th Dragon, Werrington, Charity MAY Fun Day & Mini Beer Fest in aid of Sat 16th Heritage Pubs (Mild Passport) British Troops. Trip by train, to Shrewsbury area. Contact Thu 30th – Mon 4th 7th Coal Heavers Mick Slaughter for details. Arms Spring Beer Fest, approx 40 ales, Mon 18th Branch Committee Meeting, see advert for details. Coal Heavers Arms 8.30pm. Thu 30th – Sun 3rd 15th Reading Beer Wed 20th LocAle Scheme, Wisbech Area & Cider Festival, King’s Meadow, Reading, Launch, meet up at Three Tuns, Wisbech over 400 ales. Check 8pm. Bus departs Brewery Tap 7pm, return www.readingbeerfestival.org.uk for by 11pm, cost £5. further details. Fri 22nd Working Party Trip to Cambridge Beer Festival, bus departs Brewery tap MAY 6.30pm, returning for 12.30am. The bus is Fri 1st – Mon 4th Crown, Elton, Beer & free to all volunteers (who will receive Cider festival, approx 30 ales preference), or £5 to others. Mon 18th – Sat 23rd 36th Cambridge Beer Festival, Jesus Green, Cambridge, JUNE over 200 ales. Check Mystery Tour by bus, details tba. Sat 6th www.cambridgebeerfestival.com for Branch Committee Meeting, Wed 17th further details. Blue Bell, Dogsthorpe 8.30pm. Thu 21st – Sat 23rd Lincoln Beer Please contact John Hunt for bookings or Festival, The Drill Hall, Lincoln, over 70 further details, except where stated otherwise. ales. Check www.lincolncamra.org.uk for further details. Selected Beer Festivals Fri 22nd – Sun 24th 14th Newark Beer Festival, Riverside, Newark, approx 140 ales. (CAMRA events shown in bold) Check www.newarkbeerfestival.co.uk for APRIL further details. Wed 1st – Sat 4th 33rd Newcastle Beer Festival, Student Union, Kings Walk, 6 [email protected] BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:31 Page 7
ADVERTISEMENTS JUNE Thu 11th - Mon 15th Festival of Beer & Brewing, Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket, approx 60 ales. Check www.ipswichcamra.com for further details. Fri 12th & Sat 13th 7th Elysian Beer Festival, Ely City FC, Downham Rd, Ely, approx 50 ales. Check www.elycamra.org.uk for further details
PLEASE BOOK EARLY FOR TRIPS TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT Mick Slaughter is on 01733 390598 John Hunt is on 01406 330453 Paul Brammer is on 07922 604988 Full details of all meetings and socials are posted on our website as soon as details are known. It’s the best way to ensure that you do not miss out.
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A FEW WORDS FROM THE EDITOR Only Fools & Horses
Hello readers, and promoting locally sourced products as part welcome to the of the Sustainable Communities Act, and Spring edition of reducing damage to the environment in the BAE. Yes, it’s me process by reducing ‘beer miles’. once again, and so for those of you that Then there is the Axe The Beer Tax are not even Campaign. Supported by CAMRA and remotely interested industry leaders alike, thousands of people in campaigning have joined online and written to their MP issues, then it’s to complain about the chancellor’s probably time to become an ostrich as usual, intentions to increase beer duty at 2% above and maybe turn the page to the next article? inflation in each of his budgets. Beer loving The front cover headline ‘Spring into Lib-Dem MP Greg Mullholland formed the Action’ draws attention to the many issues All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, and he affecting CAMRA members, and beer now chairs the Save the Pub section of that drinkers in general over the next couple of group. They have applied sufficient pressure months. Perhaps just for once, a few more of on Mr Darling for him to make the you could become involved with at least one unprecedented decision of meeting with of them? trade leaders ahead of his deferred budget, which will now take place on April 22nd. The very first National Cask Ales Week (NCAW) takes place from April 6th – 13th, The Save the Pub Group have highlighted conveniently including the Easter Holidays, the realities of the ‘ Pub is the Hub ’ when many local pubs will be showcasing a campaign that was launched as long ago as wide selection of ales by holding beer 2001, through the Rural Action Programme festivals. The aim of NCAW is to promote of Business in the Community, by HRH the importance and pleasures of drinking Prince Charles. Reports show that 2000 real ale in pubs as opposed to buying cheap pubs have now closed since the chancellor plonk at the supermarket, and will provide increased beer duty in his budget just one essential support for rural and community year ago, resulting in over 20,000 job losses pubs in particular. NCAW replaces the with a further 75,000 under threat in the former Community Pubs Week, which used immediate future. Many villages and small to be held annually in February. communities have long since lost their village halls and post offices, and with many During NCAW, the Peterborough & District now losing their last remaining pub, com - Branch of CAMRA begin to roll out the munity life has lost its heart. For many MP’s LocAle scheme, with launch events taking to finally realise what CAMRA has been place in the city, Stamford & Wisbech, and saying for years gives no smug satisfaction with other areas to follow in the near future. when we say, “We told you so.” Full details of the LocAle scheme have been mentioned in recent issues of BAE, and an It is also incredulous that with so many pubs update is included in this edition. LocAle struggling to make ends meet in the current seeks to bolster the local economy, by economic climate, the all powerful and
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A FEW WORDS FROM THE EDITOR greedy pub-cos attempt to bleed the stone come along to support one of the LocAle dry! If they cannot find a mug punter stupid events? Or go online and sign up to the Axe enough to pay the extortionate rents and The Beer Tax campaign maybe, and let your beer prices they impose, they will try and sell local MP know just how you feel? Or you off the pub with a covenant attached that could just take the easy route and support restricts its future use. This has nothing at all your pub, attend their beer festival and ask to do with benefiting other pubs in the area, for some Mild in May? simply their own profits, as they will then seek to increase the rents on existing outlets. As for me? Well I shall follow up short 3-day Is it really any wonder why so many drinkers stints helping out at both Leicester & flock to the uncontrolled supermarkets? Newcastle Beer Festivals, by committing A classical case of this crass stupidity affects myself for almost the whole month of May our own fair city, with the impasse between to chuck barrels of beer around at Reading the tenants of the recently improved Elm and Cambridge Beer fests as Cellar Manager. Tree Tavern, formerly known as The Comet, I’ll probably just about have got my strength in Dogsthorpe (see Pub News). back by the time PBF2009 comes around! Mad? Maybe, Only Fools and Horses as they As we move into May, you are reminded say, but it’s great fun and I enjoy making that this month is set aside to promote mild new friends. Maybe if just a few more of you ales, with National Mild Day being held on decided to give up a few hours each year to Saturday 9th this year. Mild was once the help in some way with the campaign, I could most popular style of beer drunk in this ease off a bit? But you don’t even have to country, particularly popular with mill & break into sweat to help the cause, just agricultural workers, as it typically had a Spring into Action, and make yourself heard. lower ABV and was an ideal drink for slaking ones thirst. Mild is still popular in many Cheers areas, particularly the West Midlands and the Bram North-East, whereas in other parts of the country it has become as rare as the snake in Ireland.
The month of May both kicks off and ends with a Bank Holiday weekend, so many pubs that do not hold their annual beer festivals at Easter will do so at one of these times. If you know of a pub holding such an event, then why not ask the guv’nor to get a couple of milds in for all to try? They really are delicious to drink, plenty available through the wholesalers at the moment, and there are even light golden varieties around for those drinkers who are led by colour rather than taste!
So what can you the reader do between now and the next issue of BAE then? Well why not check out the diary dates, and then
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SMALL BEER
closure was a blow, but not even he could Small Beer predict the community’s positive support for the pub on its re-opening. National Pub of the Year The National Pub of the Year runners-up were: At about the same time as the Jolly Brewer The Crown, Stockport, Greater Manchester; were receiving their award for Peterborough The Tom Cobley Tavern, Spreyton, Devon & District POTY, one of last year’s branch and The Royal Oak, Rusper, West Sussex. winners was being named CAMRA National Pub of the Year for 2008. Local pub gets thumbs up, read all On Friday February 20th, The Kelham about it... Island Tavern, Russell Street, Sheffield was Local favourite Charters Bar recently received announced as the latest recipient of this national press coverage in the form of prestigious award. The KIT is a real rags to Christopher Middleton’s chosen pub of riches story as it only opened in 2002, the week. having been rescued from being a derelict Mr Middleton a reporter for the Telegraph shell of its former existence many years ago visited the real ale emporium earlier this year when the area was a hive of industry. The and on Saturday 31 January he gave the pub has been Sheffield POTY for the past 4 converted Dutch barge a big thumbs up in years and has twice before been a Regional his column Pint to Pint Our Guide to Winner, but this latest award for the KIT British Pubs. surpasses even their wildest aspirations. Mr Middleton referred to ordering a round of The pub is listed in the 2009GBG and drinks as “Its like putting a bet on the Grand Julian Hough, CAMRA’s Pubs Director and National. You find yourself standing at the bar one of the final judges, said: going I’ll have Deck the Halls, Crazy Daze and “The Kelham Island Tavern is a regular in Bishops Farewell.” His jovial comment was the Good Beer Guide and has been made in relation to the sheer volume of treasured by pub-goers from Yorkshire and different named visiting real ales that Charters beyond since its opening in 2002. It truly is a pride themselves on. pub for everyone, and its attention to detail is Douglas Hardy, General Manager of East and fantastic. To have won so many awards in Charters said “It was a bit of a surprise when such a short space of time, even enduring a one of our regulars handed us a copy of the disastrous flood in 2007, is a true testament to paper, but I am really proud of what we the dedication and commitment of its staff. achieve at Charters as we pride ourselves on The pub is a deserved winner, and a wonder - promoting and serving the best real ale and ful example of a well-run community pub.” Thai food.” Licensee Trevor Wraith bought the property in 2001 with the uphill task of turning a Flying the Flags... semi-derelict site with a damaged roof into Multi-award winning pub the Palmerston Arms an award-winning pub. After a number of recently celebrated its 1st anniversary since repairs and a lot of hard work, the pub re-opening following last year’s refurbishment re-opened in March 2002. Trade boomed on March 1st, and being St David’s Day, Karen from day one thanks to a loyal community & Mick ensured there was some Welsh ale clientele, with the pub consistently success - on offer. ful in local CAMRA awards. In July 2007, The Palmy crew also celebrated Burns Night the pub suffered horrendous flood damage with Scottish ales & traditional fare, and once to the pub floor and cellar, and was forced again hope to offer a selection of traditional to close for 6 weeks. Trevor admits this stouts & porters for St Patrick’s Day. They
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SMALL BEER
have also recently hosted some quality live on natural ingredients and the traditional music acts from local musicians, including process of brewing, real ale is very much part Lloyd Watson, The Mighty Persuaders, of the real food revolution that is sweeping Pennyless and the recently reformed across the UK." Davison-Woods Band. Gigs are usually held about once every 4 or 5 weeks, normally on Axe the Beer Tax Update a Thursday night. This latest campaign is just 3 months old Being fiercely patriotic, Karen & Mick have and is going from strength to strength. promised something really special for St Disappointed by the actions of our dubious George’s Day, so why not pop along and chancellor, over 11,000 have sent emails to enjoy some of the special ales that will also their local MP from the link on the website, be available on the night? and more than 22,000 have joined the fight on Facebook. Food for Thought Some MPs are taking note as well, with over CAMRA is today celebrating after being 120 from all of the main parties now having named runner-up at the Good signed the Early Day Motion proposed by Housekeeping Food Awards, held on the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group to Monday February 23 at the Courtrooms put pressure on the despicable cad ahead of in Covent Garden, London. his April Budget. Thanks to a nomination by actress and food For the first time in at least a decade, the writer Jane Asher, and the views of Good chancellor has agreed to meet with Housekeeping's expert panel, CAMRA concerned trade leaders ahead of his next finished runner-up in the "Favourite Food fiscal shuffle, and provided he’s not Hero" category. Asher praised CAMRA for completely deaf, there may be some respite its hard work and was a strong advocate for for all concerned? the organization during the judging process, I wont hold my breath, but just maybe... stating she'd been well aware of CAMRA's work for many years. And finally… The Awards were hosted by chef Prue Leith, Okay, so it’s well known that I’m partial to a who heralded CAMRA for its dedicated pint or two, and many of my friends campaigning: recognise that my passion for ale started at a "CAMRA has done fantastic work over the far younger age than is now deemed years, and with traditional pubs disappearing acceptable, but when I received the rapidly, there's no question that it has saved following picture in my inbox enquiring if it real ales from almost certain extinction." was one of my missing baby photos… Louise Ashworth, CAMRA Head of Marketing, was delighted to pick up ...Well even I the award: had to chuckle! "We were really surprised and excited to But erm, no it receive such strong support from Jane Asher isn’t sorry. and the other judges and to have been put forward for this award at Good Please keep all Housekeeping magazine. It just shows that stories, snippets appreciation for real ale and support for pubs of news, gossip, photographs, jokes & any have a strong hold across many sections of other information coming. society and that there is much genuine Thanks. support for CAMRA's ideals. With a focus Bram
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PUB NEWS Pub News Around ‘Ere
Pub Chat while until they had their feet well and truly under the table before putting my thoughts It’s a sign of the into print. Most of us know the 'Hand' and times when a pub has its succession of landlords over the years, to be converted to a from John & Alice Palmer to their members club to irrepressible son Shaun, to the lovely Pauline deter those and her quiet and thoughtful partner Eamon customers who would and his Guinness appreciating activities; all be better off drinking having provided a haven of relative sanity (?) on street corners. in an increasingly mad world. This tradition The once beleaguered pub in Parnwell - will continue under the guidance of Alan & known variously as the Spring, Fox & Goose Mary and although they are new to the trade or to quote the vernacular, the Fox & Giro - they have taken to the task like the has undergone a spectacular transformation proverbial Mallard to water. The pub has into Club Caliente. The brains behind the had a fresh coat of paint and the war idea being Pam Chelmiah, who is the licens - memorial has been reinstated to its original ee. The club will provide a hub for the local place on the wall. The beer quality has been community with theme nights, dance classes excellent on my regular visits and the locals and music events, while during the day there report that the beer is still excellent on the is a restaurant and internet cafe. Real ale is occasions that I have not visited. They have not currently available but you never know plans to improve the beer garden and even what the future will bring? It’s a brave install an outside bar for the summer months attempt and we're all glad the place is open which I think will prove popular. I'm now again and we wish Pam and the residents of confident that the pubs future will be bright Parnwell the best of British. and rosy and all will be well with the world.
The Golden Pheasant in Etton (not far off the Glinton Bypass) was taken over in November by Kate Shinkings who also looks after the Rose at Frognall. Changes have taken place at the Pheasant and the beer quality is in the range of excellent to even better with 3 hand-pumps on the go, a fourth may be added in the near future. It’s been a while since I last visited the pub and I forgot how wonderful a setting it is. With a pint in hand overlooking open country in the beer garden it’s truly delightful. It’s about time I mentioned Mary and Alan Young of the Hand & Heart in our pages. Stamford Stuff Many of you will think I have been ignoring this dynamic duo who took over the pub We're getting quite used to pubs closing several months ago but I thought I'd wait a nowadays and Stamford like the rest of the
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PUB NEWS
country hasn't entirely escaped the carnage. Over Cowbit way The Daniel Lambert has closed its doors again and the pub in Scotgate once known as The Scotgate (then Dr Thirsty's and now Cromwells) has also recently opened again after a short period of closure. Pubs however still continue to open or reopen against all the pressures of the current economic climate. One such establishment that may be worth a look is the All Saint's Brewery Pub which has recently opened its doors with one of the areas youngest landladies, Laura Young. She is joined by her partner Steve Over in Cowbit near Crowland, our good Parkes and both are looking forward to the friends and enterprising hosts Dick and times ahead. The pub is part of the old Fiona Morgan of Ye Olde Dun Cow have brewery in All Saints Street. The place has resorted to offering their meals as a takeaway had a full refurb but we're not sure if real ale option. The pub is known around the area is available, we can only assume that it is as it for the excellent food on offer, not to would be just plain daft not to when the mention the ales of course and this is just an town has a reputation for the stuff. extension of the trade. Although Dick isn't Personally I think it needs a different name offering to get on his bike and deliver though, something less long winded customers their meals, they'll have to call in perhaps, how about the Brewery Tap... at the pub to collect, but that should give I see that Darren and Becky of the Hit or them a perfect opportunity to have a Miss on Foundry Road have started a Victor pre-dinner aperitif while the chef slaves over Meldrew Appreciation Society, I can't a hot stove on their behalf. For more details believe it! Come on now Darren I really do you can call the pub on 01406 380543 think we need less whining old ba****ds in our pubs don't you? Of course the pub does Local Beer Festivals have a reputation for doing unusual things such as the karaoke competition where the I'm quite aware that landlords are busy best and the worst (and we mean really really people and it’s difficult running a pub as it is worst) have their dronings put on a cd and but sometimes landlords don't help sold for charity. I now have an idea what to themselves by ignoring free advertising when get the mother in law for her birthday…... available. We at CAMRA like to tell people about the good things that are happening in Rutland Pub of the Season local pubs through this, our official organ BAE and I’m fairly flexible in what I write in The newly created Rutland Sub Branch has the pub news. I'm mainly aiming my sights awarded the Plough at Greetham their first at landlords who decide they're going to Pub of the Season award. Landlord Ian have a beer festival and decide to tell us two Smeeton received the award and became weeks before the event expecting us to do a part of history as being the first to receive an full and glossy write up in the magazine to award from the new sub branch. The Plough advertise the event. Well it’s obviously not as many will know is a worthy winner and going to happen that way so I'm indebted to provides a real community spirit. Few pubs the pubs that have let me know in advance can boast two quiz teams, two petanque about their festivals. sides as well as a dominoes team! Continued Overleaf.... www.real-ale.org.uk 13 BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:32 Page 14
PUB NEWS Easter is always a good time to have a so much going for it, including an ale and festival to go to so I’m glad to say that the cider festival on 1st -4th May. As I read the Green Man in Stamford and Charters in leaflet mine hosts Marcus and Ros let me Peterborough will be holding theirs during have in advance (please note - in advance!!) the break. I can see that a good weekend will ensue. Essentially we're looking at an event that will The Dragon in Werrington does more than probably take over the village. Thirty ales its fair share for charity, raising over £10,000 and ciders from micro breweries around the last year and likes to combine such things country, hog roast, barbeque, live music, with beer festivals and fun days. This year basket meals (soup?) followed by the village their event will be on Saturday April 25th. fete on the Monday which threatens to have maypole dancing, morris dancing and other The Coalheavers Arms in Park St is one of games but regrettably there is no mention of my favourite pubs and Tom and his elves do Dwyle Flonking. a superb job a couple of times a year providing great beer festivals. This year we More pubs closed have the first event on from April 30th until 4th May. We've had a few pubs close recently so I thought I'd just give them a mention. As I Golden Pheasant do I have my usual overwhelming fear of an ensuing verbal backlash when they all open again as we go to press!
The George in Weldon near Corby is closed at the moment as are several pubs in March including the George, Cock and the Hammer & Anvil. In Peterborough in New England we have the Triangle still boarded up and the Greyhound has been gutted and converted into something else, quite what I know not. The Chequers in Orton Wistow is The Golden Pheasant in Etton will be still closed and in Crowland we have the holding a festival in the marquee during the George and Angel still awaiting something May Day Bank Holiday. Kate intends having to be done with. Still in Crowland and just about a dozen ales on with live around the corner the owners of the entertainment, a bouncy castle and other Carpenters Arms have applied for change of such activities. More up to date details will use to housing. emerge nearer the time so have a look at the website for more details at: Even as I write this, I have just been www.thegoldenpheasant.co.uk or call the informed that one of my locals, the Elm pub on 252387. Sounds like a perfect Tree Tavern in Dogsthorpe, is to close at the opportunity to occupy dad for a few hours end of March. The current tenants are but then again some grown ups don’t like currently at loggerheads with their bouncy castles. uncompromising landlords Admiral Taverns, following a recent hefty rent increase The Crown in Elton (towards Oundle) is coupled with a hike in beer prices, making one of those out of the way places that has trading at present levels totally unrealistic.
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PUB NEWS A Private Function things alien brings back fond memories even now, although if I’d known that the resulting So you want to hold a party but you can't wear and tear on my thumb and forefinger think of anywhere with a suitable room. would cause me irritation later in life I would Admittedly the choices are limited in probably have laid off the laser a bit. Peterborough with the Cherry Tree being favourite, most other pubs being single rooms Things have taken off in the intervening years with no facilities for separate functions. The with more and more sophisticated machines Brewery Tap however has bucked the trend being available, you can even play online with and opened one such amenity. Contact the other pub goers around the country. The next Brewery Tap for more details. generation of electronic gadgetry is the Wii. A set up that enables you to strap a thing to Pubs reopening your wrist and play virtual tennis, golf and bowling without the inconvenience of fresh air. The list obviously reads shorter than one The Halcyon in Netherton is the current entitled 'pubs closing' but we should be forefront of gaming with Wii sessions on a grateful for small mercies. After many many Monday evening which are proving popular. months of being boarded up the Old John Personally it just seems too much hard work Clare in Paston has reopened. Someone has with all that swinging about so I'll sit here with evidently seen the potential of a pub a quiet pint and my arthritic thumb dreaming surrounded by houses with little or no of simpler times. competition. The place has had difficulties in the past, it occasionally being the resort of less Keep the news coming folks. than savoury characters. We hope that whoever has taken on the challenge will be a force to be Steve Williams reckoned with. Pub s Officer
Meanwhile in New England the old Locomotive or recently Europa Bar (Specialising in European cuisine, beers and wines) is a hive of activity after a long period of closure. Not too sure what sort of bar this will be but being named the Blue Lagoon, hopes aren't high.
Just going for a Wii
We might think of the advent of the video game a fairly recent addition to the pub scene but it’s actually about 50 years since the first game was invented by a nuclear scientist for an open day. Drinkers of my vintage will no doubt remember playing ping pong, asteroids and space invaders in their local pub, my refuge was more often than not Raffles in Cowgate (now Prezzo). The thought of a Saturday afternoon drinking Bass and saving the universe from all
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POTY Pub of the Year Presentation
Photograph courtesy of Michael Slaughter
On 19th February a dozen or so of us set off by bus from Peterborough to the Jolly ROSE & CROWN Brewer in Stamford to present Dean Baker ST. PETERS ROAD MARCH PE15 9NA and Gill Perkins with the certificate 01354 652077 announcing the pub as the Peterborough CAMRA Pub of the Year 2009. EASTER BEER FESTIVAL On arrival, the pub was already busy, both Starts Friday 10th April 11am 17 Real Ale, Ciders & Perry all weekend with regulars and other CAMRA members who had made their own way. This was no Saturday 11th Open 11am surprise as Dean and Gill had organised extra Hog Roast, Bouncy Castle, Bungy Run beer, a total of nine real ales with five served LIVE ENTERTAINMENT STARTS 8PM by gravity, together with a couple of Sunday 12th Open 11am traditional ciders. Bouncy Castle, Bungy Run Face Painting 1.30 – 4.30 And as if that were not enough, they had Easter egg Hunt at 1.00pm also lain on a superb buffet. Many thanks to LIVE ENTERTAINMENT STARTS 8PM them both from Peterborough CAMRA for providing an excellent evening but even Monday 13th Open 11am more for turning a very average pub into Bouncy Castle ,Bungy Run one of excellence, a very friendly pub that RAFFLE – DRAW TO TAKE PLACE MONDAY 13TH welcomes locals and strangers alike. ALL MONEY RAISED OVER THE As the photograph shows, Dean and Gill WEEKEND WILL BE DONATED TO AIR AMBULANCE seemed quite pleased too.
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DEEPING TRIP A Deeping Outing
It’s always nice to have a day out and it’s times by some local ale swillers of my even better when it involves a pint or two. acquaintance! The choice of 5 or 6 ales in Our choice for a lunchtime soirée was the good form with home cooked food appears Lincolnshire town of Market Deeping and its to be the word on the street and I look nearby environ of Deeping St James. forward to a revisit at a suitable time of day. A short trek along the river Welland brings The Village Lock up
us to the Bell. Standing opposite the ancient stone bridge that leads us to Deeping Gate the Bell serves as a landmark along this stretch of the river and worth a visit if you're passing. The pub is large and comfortable Before our first port of call we decided that with a bar with 3 handpumps in use. we should take a look at one of the Although unable to vouch for the curiosities of Deeping St James. The village Bombardier or John Smiths the Everards lock up in Eastgate dates from 1819 when it Tiger was very palatable. was converted from the Market Cross. No doubt in constant use detaining those who became 'over refreshed' while in the pursuit of local ales. From even a cursory glance through the bars on the door you can see that there is a seat for each of the three possible inmates, in a space that wouldn't allow the swinging of a cat without fear of it becoming seriously bruised about its feline physiog. We can only assume that the three ne're do wells would emerge when morning came with a renewed understanding of each others intimate habits! The first pub along A couple of hundred yards further along we our route into the town centre is the are confronted by the forlorn visage of the Waterton Arms which was unfortunately not Crown & Anchor which patiently awaits open on our visit. Quite a shame really as the its fate. place has been mentioned more than a few
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DEEPING TRIP
D aron & lynne Grant
One of the highlights of our day out was the constant recently reopened Walnut Tree sometime stream of past known as the Horsegate Tavern. Having local resi - had a bit of a makeover several years ago the dents popping their pub required only a thorough spring clean heads around the door to by our new incumbents before the grand congratulate them on getting the pub open reopening a couple of weeks ago. The again which has been sorely missed since it interior is stylish with the two handpumps closed the doors in November last year. on the bar apparently suffering from constant use since the reopening, with A bit of a trudge into town from here brings Bombardier getting more than its fair share us to a wide selection of establishments in of a hammering. Our new hosts are Daron which to relax. Our first stop was the & Lynne Grant who, although new to the excellent Stage, formally the Deeping Stage pub trade are not new to the area having and before the 1970's the New Inn. The lived nearby for a number of years. Both are frontage gives away its origins as a coaching looking forward to serving both locals and visitors alike and would like to extend a warm welcome to all readers of BAE. I can certainly recommend the two beers on offer which were London Pride and the aforementioned Bombardier. Daron would like to extend the range of ales on offer and would ideally like a third handpump to offer something more exotic and will be looking into other beers when they've settled in. Lynne mentioned that they've had an almost Continued overleaf...
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DEEPING TRIP inn with a wide arch to facilitate the The Coach House movement of coaches into the courtyard at the rear. Built by wealthy businessman Joseph Mawby in 1803 it advertised itself as being 'entirely new with well fitted, commodious accommodation for the nobility, Gentry and Commercial Travellers'. I'm unable to say whether the gentry or the nobility still make use of the facilities but there was certainly a fair mix of customers enjoying meals and drinks. The hotel has a variety of areas in which to enjoy a pint or a bite, from a restaurant to the left of the passageway to a bar to the right with an additional room at the front with a comfy sofa or two. The Stage has recently been given the Cask Marque award and the beers on offer were quite superb with the range of beers being Charles Wells, Everards and Adnams. James Horton the manager has intimated that they will be choosing a few Sunchaser and the ubiquitous Bombardier. beers from the SIBA beer list in the The pub seems to cater for all types with the near future. usual mix of customers with a restaurant which looks to come into its own after 6.30. The Bull stands more or less opposite and there are many reasons why you should visit The White Horse has stood in Church Street when in Deeping. The Everards beers are from at least the 1840's and seems a popular always in excellent form and I've always resort. There is usually a real ale on offer but found the place to be a friendly boozer. time did not allow us a visit. One of the features is The 'Dugout' and is a virtual subterranean enclave away from the The Vine is not far ahead and should be a hustle and bustle of the main pub which I've must when in the town. Offering Charles always quite liked. Wells beers it has proved a popular pub since it’s reopening a few years ago and is run by A relative newcomer to Deeping is Rigby's Jo and Kelvin who delight in providing a just a short step or two from the Bull. friendly atmosphere. I would certainly Although we missed out the pub on this recommend the Eagle IPA which was in particular visit, we are informed that you can fighting fit condition as you would expect find Ufford Ales White Hart and beers from from a regular Good Beer Guide entrant. the local Hopshackle brewery on display alongside several other ales. Market Deeping is not too far from Peterborough or Stamford and is served by a The Coach House can be found sitting on regular bus service so if you haven't sampled the bridge and offers a whole range of beers the delights of the town then buy yourself a with 6 handpumps in operation. On tap at bus ticket now. the time of our visit were such niceties as Potbelly, Batemans GHA, Everards Cheers Mr & Mrs Telephone Repairman
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PUBS WITH A PAST Pubs With a Past Fountain, Burghley Road, Peterborough
Now known as the Glass Onion the history of Gordon Barrett can be seen skulking behind what was known as the Fountain goes back the scenes. over a hundred years. The pub we see today only dates from the 1930’s but its predecessor Any old photos out there? possibly dated from the late 19th century Steve Williams when it would have been known as the 07802 896641 Slater’s Arms. The original licence was transferred from another Slater’s Arms in Newtown now under Queensgate.
The pub had seen many excellent landlords behind the bar, including Jack Edwards, Mr & Mrs Garrod and the very popular Gordon and Pat Barrett who were the last to run it before its new life as the Glass Onion. The photo shows the interior before its ‘refurbishment’ into a single bar pub,
Cambridge Bitter 3.8% Gold Award Champion Bitter of Britain 2006 Available all year round:
SEASONAL ALES Thin Ice 4.7% Jan/Feb Old Wagg 4.0% March/April Double Swan 4.5% May/June Mad Dog 4.4% July/Aug Barleymead 4.8% Sept/Oct Old Black Shuck 4.5% Nov Snickalmas 5.0% Wenceslas Winter Warmer 7.5% Dec North Brink Brewery, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01945 583160
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BEER OF BRITAIN 2009 Champion Winter Beer of Britain 2009
Seasonal beer styles have been reborn in the decades have mercifully seen a welcome UK in the past few decades. Spring and return of a rich variety of tasty porters and summer sees the sharp, floral, light and stouts, as well as with Strong Milds. golden varieties, while winter brews tend to be darker, fuller, richer, and occasionally Old Ale was also dark, but tended to be heavily spiced or specially aged. stored (sometimes called stock beer) for weeks or months for higher alcohol content. Unlike around the Mediterranean, Northern Bitter and occasionally sour, it is a malty and Europe can have harsh winters and stronger full. The term now covers a range of dark beer has traditionally been brewed to get us strong heavy “Winter Warmers”, and apart through the long bitter nights indoors. It is from a few popular brands, these are usually thought this tradition goes back to Saxon only available in the winter. and Old Norse times, where the term ‘Wassail” (be in good health!) was coined. Don’t get it wrong, Barley wines are beers, Wassail today is sometimes known as a not wines, and very much British! These first special winter mulled beer. appeared around late Victorian times and are amongst the strongest brews available. They Some winter-type ales are available almost all are sweet or bitter-sweet and hopped and year round. These include Strong Milds, Old can be very fruity and rich. The only Ales, Porters & Stouts and Barley Wines. allusion to wine is that they tend to be sipped, not gulped. Most of us recognise Stouts as dark or black, well-hopped and dry, though there can also This year I was again invited to judge the be sweet versions, but these were originally Supreme Champion Winter Beer of Britain just strong (i.e. stout) versions of the Porter in Manchester. Tasting is blind, and the beers which were very popular amongst mediation panels first pick the best beers in Londoners in the 1720s. Guinness “extra their category, and they go forward to the stout” was actually originally known as grand final of adjudicators, comprising “extra superior porter” (and was never brewers, pub owners, beer-writers and other served ice-cold!!). experts. For judging purposes, Old Ales are categorised with Strong Milds. The fortunes Porters are also dark, of course, though were of a small brewery can be transformed by once weaker than their stout cousins. In fact winning the coveted Gold Medal. they also developed from an earlier type of beer known as Entire, more nourishing than CAMRA have been awarding the Champion standard ale, and produced especially for Winter Beer of Britain title since 1996/7. heavy labourers and market porters – hence In the first 8 years, winning names such as, the term evolved. Less hopped and unaged “Old Growler”, “Old Tom”, and “Old porters eventually became known as mild Freddie Walker”, might suggest that the Old porters, or simply Milds. All were made from Ale category was the flavour of the time, but specially roasted barley, and in the 1940’s in fact no beer from this category (including when the UK became short of grain Strong Milds) has even achieved top vote - shortages many varieties slowly disappeared Barley Wines have won the title as many (except in Ireland), with only the weaker times as Stouts and Porters have together. milds remaining alongside the traditional Last year’s top prize went to “Station bitters. The birth of CAMRA and the Porter” from Wickwar Brewery in the explosion of microbreweries in recent Cotswolds, just pipping Robinson’s “Old
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BEER OF BRITAIN 2009 Tom”, a previous double gold-winning cham - accolades, their JHB (a 3.8% golden beer) was pion barley wine. the Supreme Champion of Britain in 2001. Attila will now go forward to the 2009 Almost 9,000 people (1,000 more than in Champion Beer of Britain finals 2008) came through the doors from a in August. bitterly cold winter flying around the New Century Hall. During the peak periods, some Runner-up was “1872 Porter” from Elland even queued outside, knowing a Brewery, West Yorkshire, a malty rich and “one-in-one-out” policy was being applied. complex 6.5% brew based on a genuine 1872 recipe, while third place went to the ever pop - After long deliberations, the 2009 Supreme ular “Dark Ruby Mild” from Sarah Hughes Winter Champion was announced from the Brewery in Dudley. Different palates can iden - stage to be “Attila” – a 7.5% barley wine from tify berries, toffee, and chocolate in this classic Oakham Ales brewery in Peterborough. The smooth, sweet, malty, 6% mild. brewer describes it as having “fruity notes and an elderflower aroma with the taste of ripe red The National Winter Beer festival runs berries and citrus fruit and a long bitter fruity during late January each year and volunteers taste”. serve on average around 100 pints of beer It is certainly fruity and sweet, yet has the every minute. You should be able to find distinctive lemon-sherbet undertones often good winter ale in the less hectic associated with Oakham beers. This award surroundings of you local pub. If not, ask the comes hot on the heels of its gold medal in landlord to some in – just the stuff for the Dudley Winter Ales festival a few months a harsh winter! earlier. The brewery is no stranger to Ian Boyd South Beds Branch brewing prize-winning brews. Amongst other
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CONGRATULATIONS Gilbert Cole 8 0 Not Out!
Our heartfelt congratulations go out to one member of the of our most elderly members and, almost Ramblers certainly one of our longest serving ones! Association – he Gilbert reached the milestone age of eighty – still goes out and yes that’s 80 years old, on the 4th of March. delivers this Gilbert was in attendance at the inaugural newsletter each meeting of the formation of our issue. Peterborough Branch of CAMRA, which took place at The Bull in Market Deeping, as We all within the the commemorative plaque outside the pub Branch of Peterborough CAMRA clearly states. wish Gilbert all the best wishes on reaching his eightieth birthday and hope he remains During his more active days, Gilbert was for in good health for many years to come. He many years the branch Membership is not our oldest member but, there are very Secretary, a position he held with great zeal. few much older than him. If you bump into He thought nothing of going out at night Gilbert buy him a beer for his birthday! and knocking on doors to enquire if the occupant who had become a lapsed member David Murray wished to renew their membership. Needless Branch Chairman to say this brought several of what we can now describe as hilarious incidents. A few certainly spring to mind, such as the day he went round to a house to enquire about the ‘lapsed member’ considering renewing. Answer: “Well he would if he was still alive but, he died two years ago.” “That’s a no then” replied our man. Another classic, “If you can find the b*****d then ask him!” One more, “They don’t live here anymore.” “So where are they now?” “Australia!” We used to have some hilarious reports from Gilbert at branch meetings during these magic years.
Gilbert’s other claim to fame must be his vast knowledge of our local pub scene from bygone days to the present. I never grow tired of him reporting to me any change of anything to do with our local pubs. If you have the time, he will captivate your attention with tales from the past in regard to almost any pub within a twenty-five mile radius of Peterborough. Although not as sprightly as he used to be – he was a keen
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OBITUARY Kit Chown RIP We very much regret to report the passing expedition, or had only just got back from away of one of our staunchest members, Kit one. He loved his holidays and Portugal in Chown, in February. I had known Kit (his particular. Kit lived his life to the fullest real name was Carson, I kid you not) for a extent that would be the envy of many number of years. My first meeting was a soul. through my involvement in my younger days with Peterborough Rugby Club, when I He never let his short illness get him down played with Kit’s brother Roger in one of the and was even supping a pint in one of his lower string teams. Kit was well local pubs a few days before he passed away. established in the club and, I also discovered On the day of his funeral several of the that he had a passion for real ale which was in mourners could not even get into the some places in limited supply. crematorium, and stood outside throughout the service. I think Kit would have had a Some years later after my oval ball handling good laugh at that. days were over, I met up again with him at Peterborough Beer Festival. He was a Our heartfelt condolences go to Annette and willing helper at the festival for many a year. all of his family. We will remember a man His other great love in life was travelling. In who was a large one in stature and, most recent years I used to joke that every time I certainly a large fun loving one in life. met him and his wife Annette, they were either just about to set off on another Dave Murray
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YOUNG MEMBERS Young Members Social
The Coalheavers beer festival will soon be upon us so I thought there’d be no better place to have the first young members get together than in their beer garden. We’ve managed to bargain with the landlord so we even have a little offer for you too!
Every CAMRA card carrying young member can get a ticket at the bar that will entitle them to a pint and one of Tom’s very nice home made burgers (watch out for the home made chilli sauce though, it’s ever so slightly hot!) for only £4. Any young members attending who would like to take advantage of this offer must show their CAMRA card at the main bar in order to Good Selection Of Real Ales get their ticket. The offer is only available on the Saturday of Beer Garden With Childrens Play Area the festival, which actually runs from April Open All Day Friday Saturday Sunday 30th through to May 4th and will have a nice selection of beers to choose from. Good Food Available - Regular BBQ’S Myself, and my pub partner in crime Separate Lounge & Bar Area, Cherolyn, will be there (myself no doubt for Snug Room the majority of the festival). Pool Table Juke Box Darts I’m always open to ideas regarding what else SKY TV we can organise so if anyone has any thoughts or suggestions, email them to me Quiz Machine In Bar and I’ll have a look. I’ll definitely be looking 6 Foot Large Screen, Large Car Park for ideas for the Peterborough Beer Festival! Regular Live Music Saturday Evenings Alix 26 [email protected] BAE 146 Prog:Layout 1 13/03/2009 09:32 Page 27
RHYTHM & BOOZE Rhythm & Booze
Allowing club owners to stock something new, while avoiding wastage? Bottled beer is an easy way to introduce real ale into new surroundings. For those who like to hear new music, they no longer have to settle for Blue WKD.
The Thorpe Lodge Hotel, Thorpe Road offers a variety of Oakham Ales, including JHB. They host an “open mic” session in the Cellar Bar, the first Friday of the month at 8:30pm. Having hosted The Malingerers live debut, the evening is open to both beginners and experienced performers. Solos and duets who want to play just turn up, while bands need to call 01733 891860 first to discuss logistics.
Despite its sister venue The City Club stocking JHB, the owner says that there’s Other gigs include Example, White Clouds & “no call for it” at The Met Lounge. Instead Gunfire and The Kitchen Club on April 24th; you have a selection of Ruddles County, Sam Issac, Scott McEwan & The Candle Marston’s Pedigree and Wells Bombardier Thieves and The Brackets on May 3rd and Satanic Mills. Perfect for those who like Guildean Gang, The Throwaways and Straw their beer either black or brown. Bear on Saturday 23rd.
Hosted by Deaf In Stereo, a highlight to Upcoming gigs for two popular local bands are look out for are The Hot Toddies. The all as follows: The Nuggets play the Dragon, girl band from California are influenced by Werrington on May 2nd & the Bluebell, copious amounts of tequila, 60s pop and Dogsthorpe on May 30th. doo wop. They play The Met on April 10th; Retrolux meanwhile appear at the Elm Tree support comes from Foxes and Tavern, Garton End Road on April 3rd; the The Throwaways. Cherry Tree, Oundle Road on May 6th & the Fayre Spot & Goodly (The Cresset), Bretton The Hot Toddies on May 22nd.
Venues, promoters and bands wanting a mention in this column can get in touch by dropping an email to [email protected]
Simon Stabler
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BAE GONES BAE Gones Thanks to
20 Years Ago the Few We were still waiting for the plans for the Still pub, though it was expected to include My grateful thanks go out to all the branch an open courtyard with eight craft shops and members who took the time and trouble to a new entrance to Queensgate (Well that return their voting forms for this years Pub rumour was wrong). of the Year, and also their selections for the Brewery closures continued with Grand 2010 Good Beer Guide. The few have over Metropolitan closing its Brick Lane brewery the years become fewer but, I still get where Truman Best Bitter was brewed. bombarded with requests and even gripes as Greenall Whitley announced that they would to why their favourite pub did not get into be closing the Davenports brewery. the GBG. Simple, I did not receive your Ecologist Martin Moore estimated that leaks votes for any of the pubs. Either that or the from CO2 systems used for keg bitter and pub did not receive enough votes to be even lager in pubs was equivalent to 65,000 considered for inclusion in our limited tonnes carbon dioxide a year. allocation for each section of our branch. We only get a certain amount of pubs allocated 15 Years Ago to each county within our branch region. New legislation was about to be revealed to “sweep away the red tape” connected with I also extend a much deserved thank you to pubs and that would allow children into the very small number of members who went pubs that had a Children’s Certificate. This out to the selected pubs, and did the proved to be a serious red tape generator obligatory survey before the pub is advanced and most pubs didn’t bother apply. forward to the next selection stage. I am not The Beehive in the corner of the ASDA car at liberty to say which pubs have been put park opened (actually reopened as it had forward for our selection. You will have been a pub many years before). It has just to wait till the 2010GBG is published reopened again. in September.
10 Years Ago I need to remind members that our selection We named the Hand & Heart as our Pub of does not include any pubs within the the Year. We ran the first of a series about Rutland area that was previously part of our pub crawls by public transport. This visited branch, as they have now set up their own ten pubs using six buses and, surprisingly, sub-branch aligned to the Leicester branch. you can still do this crawl using the same It was felt that we therefore should not be buses at the same times although a couple of selecting pubs for what is in effect another the pubs have closed for good. branches area. We nevertheless still keep a Dave Allett produced one of his long missed close contact with the new Rutland branch exposés, this one on “Medically Enhanced through this newsletter. Beer”. DA also wrote about the move of Oakham Ales to Westgate under the title, Again thanks to all for your efforts. “Will Size Matter Now Oakham Are Big Boys?”. Dave Murray
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JOIN CAMRA
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BRANCH CONTACTS Branch Committee Beer Around ’Ere The next issue of BAE will Secretary: Harry Morten Editor: Paul (Bram) Brammer be published on: 49 St Margarets Rd, 07922 604988 (m) Friday 22nd May. Peterborough PE2 9EA [email protected] We must have your stories, 01733 764296 (h) news and advertisements by: 07900 056940 (m) Distribution: Position vacant Monday 4th May. 08707 620848 (fax) Late copy cannot be [email protected] Advertising: Neil Richards guaranteed entry. 01536 358670 (h & w) Chairman: David Murray [email protected] Please contact Neil Richards 01733 560453 on 01536 358670 for all of [email protected] Magazine & Advertising your advertising needs. Production: Dan Wheeler Treasurer: Paul Beecham 01733 751286 (h & w) Steve Williams pubs-offi - 01733 311981(h) [email protected] [email protected] or 07802 07710 008693 896641 is always looking for [email protected] Postal Distr: Daryl Ling pub news. 01733 235881 (h) Vice Chair: John Hunt Please send stories and other 01406 330453 (h) Brewery Liaison Officers copy to Bram (Paul Brammer) [email protected] Blue Bell: John Hunt [email protected] 01406 330453 (h) 07922 604988 Social Sec: John Hunt Digfield: Paul Brammer [email protected] 07922 604988 (m) Beer Around ‘Ere is Elgoods: Dawn Mason published by Peterborough & Pubs Officer: Steve Williams 01733 243557 (h) District Branch of CAMRA 07802 896641 (m) Hopshackle: Noel Ryland Copyright © 2009, The [email protected] 07944 869656 (m) Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. Press Officer: Robert Barnes Melbourn: Lew Clayton 07811 585699 (m) 01780 765063 (h) Views or comments [email protected] Oakham Ales: Dave Allett expressed in this publication 07966 344417 (m) may not necessarily Young Members: Tydd Steam: John Hunt be those of the Editor or Alix Botton 01706 330453 (h) of CAMRA. 07806 625574 Ufford Ales: Matt Mace [email protected] 07809 629241 (m)
Membership: Daryl Ling Trading Standards 01733 235881 (h) 08454 040506 (w) [email protected] www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Festival Org: Mike Lane Check out our new 07850 334203 (m) website at: [email protected] www.real-ale.org.uk or www.peterborough- LocAle Officer: John Rice camra.org.uk 07759 342702
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Real Ale and Cider Festival Friday 1st May- Monday 4th May Real Ales sourced from Micro-Breweries across the UK Variety of Country Cider and Perry
Heated Festival Tent Sunday 3rd May Festival tent open noon-10.30pm Afternoon: Live music from Friday 1st May Evening: Open Mic night and Open from 7.00 Basket food available Evening: Live music from Food available 6.30-9.00 Monday 4th May Day in the Inn Festival tent open noon- evening Lunchtime: Hog Roast Saturday 2nd May Afternoon: Live music from Festival tent open noon- 10.30pm 2-5pm Elton Society Supper BBQ by festival tent 6.30-10.30pm Village Fete on the Green Evening: Live band (May dancing, stalls, games, BBQ)
For further details please contact: 8 Duck Street, Elton, Cambs PE8 6RQ Tel: 01832 280232 | Email: [email protected] | www.thecrowninn.org
The Prince of Wales Feathers Castor, Peterborough Tel: 01733 380222 132 Great Whyte Ramsey PE26 1HS
Keith and Jenny offer a warm welcome to all old and new customers.
Serving a selection of Real Ales: Abbott Ale, Wells Bombardier, Open throughout the day for great real ales Black Sheep Bitter, and a relaxed atmosphere. Wychwood Hobgoblin Lunches available 12-2.30 (Sun 1-3) Live Music Christmas bookings now being taken. Everyone welcome including dogs Large Beer Garden 2007 Gold Award Winner www.princeofwalesfeathers.co.uk 01487 812597