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your free magazine | WINTER 2015/16
WETHERSPOONNEWS READ BY
2 MILLION
CUSTOMERS
Wetherspoon News New Wetherspoon Pub‑Finder
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TIM’S VIEWPOINT
Alcohol and dementia: knight
on a hobby horse cries wolf
It is hard to fathom why a gastroenterologist with an anti-alcohol agenda
was asked to pronounce on matters of the mind, but it’s no surprise that
his emissions on the subject have a distinct whiff
If you or I, in a deliberate act The Daily Mail was one This is the second time which reduced their alcohol
and from a position of authority, newspaper which highlighted I can recall that Wetherspoon consumption, probably to their
gave information to the public the ludicrous claims about News has taken issue with benefit, in many cases.
which we knew to be false, alcohol and dementia on its a supposed learned professor However, the last 45 years have
we would risk being clapped front pages, yet, to its credit, on a medical matter. The last seen health scare after health
in irons or, more worryingly, published a long article in time, we questioned the health scare which have subsequently
transported to Australia. rebuttal from Tony Edwards, benefits of Britain lowering its proven to have been misleading
However, a minority of senior an author and journalist, who salt consumption and referred and wrong. Butter was
representatives of the medical had studied these subjects in our readers to a brilliant article supposed to be bad for you –
profession, often representing some depth (see his comments by Gary Taubes in the that advice has now been
government or government- on pages 38–39). The basic New York Times in which retracted. You were supposed
approved agencies, seems to argument of Mr Edwards is that he stated that the evidence not to consume more than two
trot out abject nonsense at will Gilmore is talking nonsense. indicated that lowering salt eggs a week, said the NHS
– which often goes uncorrected The overwhelming conclusion consumption worsened health – eggs are now regarded as a
for years or decades, at least in of the studies which he has outcomes for individuals and, super-food. You were supposed
the public’s mind. made, and those which have in so many words, that the to drink two litres of water a day
been made by the medical current levels of salt (not sure to what extent the
A recent example related to
profession itself, is that consumption in western NHS backed this one) – this has
lurid front-page headlines in
moderate alcohol consumption countries were not harmful. turned out to be utter
a number of newspapers, in
is a protecting factor in respect The anti-salt arguments, most balderdash. Running five miles
which a report sponsored by
of dementia. vociferously advocated by a day is good for you – no, it’s
the government health
Mr Edwards states that he was Professor Graham MacGregor not, in most cases – we now
organisation NICE said that
not surprised that Gilmore had of the Wolfson Institute, seem know that you are better off
there was no safe alcohol limit
drawn conclusions which were to have been adopted walking the dog for 30–40
for dementia and that even
the polar opposite of the truth, wholesale by the NHS, which minutes a day. A low-fat and
light or moderate alcohol
since he was a advocates a reduction in salt high-carbohydrate diet will
consumption increased the risk
gastroenterologist and had no consumption from a daily improve health – now regarded
of this terrible illness.
apparent training or experience average of about eight grams as completely untrue – and the
The source of this myth was in Britain (the lowest in Europe) whole link between dietary fat
in dementia. Mr Edwards
Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, to six. There is simply no and heart disease has been
asked NICE for a copy of the
formerly head of the Royal scientific evidence for this questioned and, depending
‘independent’ report on which
College of Physicians (if you advice, at least as I understand it. on what you read, proven to
it relied, before it issued a press
want to become a knight, be untrue.
release linking alcohol to
curing the sick is not enough
dementia; he was surprised Deluded
on its own…) and inveterate
to find that Sir Ian’s report As far as I’m concerned,
anti-alcohol campaigner.
Logic
dealt with the issue of the link As far as I’m Gilmore was not telling the
between alcohol and dementia truth in his report to NICE,
This is the same Gilmore in only 92 words – hardly concerned, and NICE, itself, is not telling
(as he then was), I think, who a considered analysis of this the truth, by implication, by
assisted the major brewers complex area. Gilmore was not retracting the information
(I kid you not) in opposing
Wetherspoon’s licence
Extreme not telling which it sent out, based on
what Gilmore said. The attitude
He was also surprised to learn
applications for new pub
that Gilmore is an inveterate the truth which is implicit in the
licences in the 1980s and 1990s. approach of NICE and Gilmore
anti-alcohol campaigner and
It’s also the same Gilmore who is that it is legitimate to mislead
president of Alcohol Concern,
advocated legalising heroin and the public in pursuance of the
so not exactly an objective
cocaine, as reported in various You shouldn’t take medical objective of persuading people
commentator. If, in the past, you
newspaper articles in about advice from me, and I am not to reduce their alcohol
have taken what most people
2010. Logic and consistency of exactly an unbiased consumption, even if, perversely,
regard as extreme anti-alcohol
argument are not the professor’s commentator when it comes to it leads to an increased
views, as well as views in
strong points, as is evident from the question of alcohol incidence of dementia. This is
respect of heroin which most
this brief paragraph. consumption. Pepsi, including not a line of reasoning with
would regard as outrageous,
it is unlikely that many would Diet Pepsi, is our biggest-selling which most people would agree.
believe you to be sufficiently draught product, and we sell Tim Martin
unbiased to give advice on this more coffee and tea than we do Chairman
important subject. Pepsi; so, many customers have
www.jdwetherspoon.com < winter 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 3
INSIDE
12 24
30 47
48 71
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WIN!PRIZE
CROSSWORD
P81
66
FEATURES THE REGULAR STUFF
HOP ON THE CRAFT RAFT............................ 12 YOUR SAY............................................................................... 6
Wetherspoon beer festival
COMPETITION................................................................. 81
PLAYHOUSE PARTIES ON .......................... 24
The Playhouse, in Colchester, is celebrating CAMRA’S BAR TALK..............................................82
its 21st birthday
VODKA AND GIN CHOICE............................. 30
Wide range on offer will engender blithe spirits NOW OPEN
ALCOHOL AND DEMENTIA..........................38 WETHERSPOON HAS OPENED MORE
Don’t swallow the distortions
NEW PUBS IN RECENT MONTHS�������26
NEW DESSERTS..........................................................47
Cartmel sticky toffee pudding�
and scones with clotted cream OUR PEOPLE AND
THE ‘YOU’ IN ‘MENU’........................................... 48
Our meals come in guises to suit all desires
COMMUNITIES
THE RISE OF SCAMPI......................................... 54 BIRTHDAYS����������������������������������������������������������������������� 58
Tasty favourite, with an exotic name (or two), OUR PEOPLE������������������������������������������������������������������� 52
is sourced in British waters
THE GOOD BEER GUIDE.................................. 59 COMMUNITY������������������������������������������������������������������ 34
296 Wetherspoon pubs in the Good Beer Guide
HOW ’SPOON IS NOW....................................... 66 OUR CHARITY
Wetherspoon strives to stay bang up to date
as new technology emerges CLIC SARGENT����������������������������������������������������������� 40
STEAK OUT........................................................................ 71 Written and edited by Eddie Gershon, along with welcome contributions
Sirloin, rump or the mighty Angus from Wetherspoon staff.
GLOBAL BREWING ALL-STARS .......... 72 Artwork by Banner create.
Proofreading by Future Perfect.
Wetherspoon autumn ale festival 2015 Using paper from sustainable resources, this is printed in the UK.
THE BRUNCHERS’ BITE....................................79 All J D Wetherspoon food and drink in this magazine is subject to local licensing
restrictions and availability at participating free houses. Photography is for
If you are looking for an all-day brunch option, guidance only. J D Wetherspoon PLC reserves the right to withdraw/change
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our terms and conditions. Price and participation may vary per pub.
CORE BLIMEY: CIDER FANS...................... 80 Android, Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc.
66 Wetherspoon pubs across several counties Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S.
enjoy a range of ciders from across the region and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
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I’LL RALLY TO YOUR FLAG…
Dear Tim
I have just read ‘Tim’s Viewpoint’ in Wetherspoon News and thoroughly
agree with every word.
Would you consider standing for parliament? We could start a
‘Wetherspoon party’. I would willingly be a founder member.
I am sure that many customers would vote for you, irrespective of their
previous political allegiance.
Yours sincerely
Reg Thirkettle, Handcross, West Sussex
Tim replies: Thanks Reg, but, paraphrasing Groucho Marx, I wouldn’t join any
Your Say
political party which would have me as an MP.
Write to us
Your letter really can make a
Original
back.pdf
1 20/11/2014
13:27
difference. So, please do keep
hotels
writing. Should you have any
suggestions on how we can
local - visi
find your improve our service,
please let us know.
t: www.jd
wetherspo
on.co.uk
Thank you
£5 G IFT VOUCH
ER There’s £20 of Wetherspoon
£5 £5 vouchers for every letter we print
ds k
five poun ww
spoon.co.u
w.jdwether
Write to: The Editor, Wetherspoon News, J D Wetherspoon plc,
Central Park, Reeds Crescent, Watford, WD24 4QL
E-mail: customerservices@jdwetherspoon.co.uk
All letters to the editor are read, considered and also passed onwards (if appropriate), yet, owing to correspondence volume,
not all letters may be answered. Should you have any specific feedback, to which you wish to receive a reply, please write to
the customer services team at the address above or use the customer feedback form on our website.
PREPARED FOR
HOLY ORDERS
Dear Tim
Thank God Wetherspoon is
coming to Grays!
It will be an immense
contribution to the whole
community and wonderful
TRULY A LOO WITH A VIEW
Dear Tim
I would just like to take a moment to praise
the bizarre, yet wonderful, ladies’ toilets at
The Knights Templar, on Chancery Lane, London.
to see the State Cinema so
sensitively restored – just The rotunda-like sinks, statues, mosaic detailing and
what the town needs. the swathes of sofas are spot on – if there isn’t a seat
Best wishes upstairs, or even when there is, I feel like bringing my
pint down and hanging out down there among it all.
Fr Brian O’Shea, RC Parish
Priest, Grays, Essex I’d also like to give an honourable mention to the
bathrooms in The Ledger Building (London) and
Tim replies: The Bright Helm (Brighton).
Thank you for your faith
in Wetherspoon, which Who would have thought that your loos would
is sincerely appreciated. be as various and glorious in their design as your
The locals in Grays have ale selection.
certainly supported us Best wishes
with religious fervour. Georgia Haire, London, SE14
In all seriousness,
Tim replies: Many thanks. At Wetherspoon, we know
the State should make
what makes gals happy. Well, not everyone agrees…
a fantastic pub.
6 > WETHERSPOON > winter 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.com
LETTERS
CALORIFIC COMPLAINT
Dear Tim ELEVATED BY I’M STICKING WITH YOU…
CO-CAPTAINS
As a customer, a regular driver and a life Dear Tim
member of Slimming World, I appreciate My wife and I are both big fans of Wetherspoon
the Calorific value of the dishes on your and actively seek your pubs wherever we are in
menu. However, as in all restaurants and the country.
pubs, I lament the limited choice of
non-alcoholic, low-Calorie drinks. I do, however, have one gripe! Why can you not
Dear Tim
Supermarkets have a great variety of supply beer mats?
I write to say what a pleasure it was to visit
sugar-free drinks, including most of the The Flying Horse (after security, South The tables get sticky and messy, and people
big-name brands, with sugar-free ginger Terminal, Gatwick) when going on holiday. have no alternative but to use the paper menus
beer my favourite. Please can something be Even though the pub was obviously very to rest their glasses on. These obviously get
done? It would be good to see Wetherspoon busy at breakfast time, my food arrived tatty more quickly.
leading the field in this respect. within 10 minutes. The bar staff were Can you start providing beer mats please?
Yours sincerely young, cheerful and attentive – and the I think it would certainly improve the drinking
Mrs Helen Edmonds, manager was on hand to meet customers and eating experience at your otherwise
Southampton, Hampshire and accept my positive comments. excellent pubs.
Tim replies: Have spoken to our groovy However, what really impressed me and Yours sincerely
team. We agree that our choice could be prompted me to write was the fact that
better, but struggled to come up with some the pub had employed two gentlemen to Kevin Diss, Madeley, Telford, Shropshire
new products – which we will review. greet customers and see to their needs. Tim replies: Fair comment. Our managers and
By the way, R White’s Lemonade is VERY low The two were of ‘senior age’ and clearly floor staff have historically disliked beer mats,
in Calories, I was told; this was news to me. not bar staff of waiters, but acted more since ex-smokers, such as my good self,
like butlers – asking customers whether invariably rip two or three to shreds in the
they needed a table, arranging for extra course of an evening. Our suppliers make
TIME TO USE YOUR LOAF
Dear Tim
chairs or bringing condiments. Their
presence brought a wonderful sense of
calm to a busy pub.
It is encouraging to see that
Wetherspoon and the manager of
them available, and I will suggest to our pub
managers that we try to have a stock at the
bar for customers (easy for me to promise,
since I don’t clear the tables).
HELP! Wherever my wife and I travel in the UK,
ROOTIN’ FOR GLUTEN FREE
either on holiday or for a trip out, we always The Flying Horse support employment
head for the nearest Wetherspoon in town for across the full age range.
breakfast, lunch or dinner. Yours sincerely
Now, I could munch my way through the Richard NS Walmsley, St Neots, Dear Tim
menu quite happily; unfortunately, my better Cambridgeshire I would first like to thank you for providing
half, being somewhat a health guru, always no-gluten and no-wheat options on your
Tim replies: Having hit 60 myself
gives me earache about the fact that there is menu. The ribs and steak are delicious.
no wholemeal option for the wraps or toast. recently, it’s good to hear praise of those
of a certain age. Floor staff in our pubs However, I wondered whether you would
Any chance of introducing an alternative to sometimes walk 10 miles a day, so most please consider providing a gluten- and
white bread? could outrun Mo Farah, if put to the test. wheat-free beer or lager?
Nagging would cease and, more important, Yours sincerely
I could visit my favourite pub more often,
OATCAKES
instead of being dragged along to these Jayne Grice, Tickhill, Doncaster
‘arty farty’ establishments for canapés! Tim replies: OK, sensible idea – we’ll add a
King regards couple when we update the menu in March.
John Baines, Skegby, Nottinghamshire
NO ’SPOONS? ISLE BE SORRY
AND ALE?
Tim replies: I feel your pain. Wetherspoon
is a big believer in marital harmony.
As a result, we will appease the guru and
introduce wholemeal wraps in March. Dear Tim
I have just returned from a wonderful holiday
in the Isle of Man. It has five great little coastal
towns, as well as the larger capital Douglas.
Dear Tim Geography lesson over, my only gripe about the
As I’m sure you are aware, we folk in place is that there is not a single Wetherspoon
Staffordshire are very partial to to visit, after a good day’s walking or biking.
oatcakes, especially filled oatcakes with You are denying both local folk and visitors the
cheese/bacon or both. They are healthy marvellous Wetherspoon experience.
and delicious and quick to prepare.
I am sure that your pubs would be extremely
Any chance you could add them to
popular, and the competition would improve
your menu? I am sure that they would
the overall hospitality scene on the island.
go down a treat, especially up here in
north Staffordshire. Please make it happen, Tim. Great magazine,
Best wishes by the way.
Michael Griffin, Stoke on Trent, Yours sincerely
Staffordshire Wayne Kelly, Seacroft, West Yorkshire
Tim replies: I know how much you like Tim replies: Never been there actually,
your oats in Staffs. Even so, we did try but sounds a sensible idea. I’ll call in on the
oatcakes before, but they weren’t too way to our Dublin pubs.
successful. No guarantees, but I will
speak to our chaps on my next visit.
www.jdwetherspoon.com < winter 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 7
AWARDS HYGIENE GENE IS IN OUR DNA Wetherspoon has best food hygiene standards in England, finds Food Standards Agency Wetherspoon has the best food hygiene standards in England, among the top 20 biggest high-street restaurant and pub chains – according to the Food Standards Agency (FSA). The FSA published its report to mark the fifth anniversary of its Food Hygiene Rating Scheme, highlighting levels of hygiene in pubs, restaurants, cafés and take-aways across England. The Food Hygiene Rating Scheme scores outlets 0–5, with a 5 rating meaning very good hygiene standards. The ratings are determined by local authority food safety officers, who visit the outlets to assess the levels of hygiene. Wetherspoon has the highest proportion of 5s (93.1 per cent), joint top with Pret A Manger. The company’s chief executive, John Hutson, said: “Food hygiene is of paramount importance to our customers – and rightly so. “Our pub management and staff work hard to ensure that our pubs offer customers the highest level of food hygiene, at all times. “We are extremely pleased that our pubs offer the best standards of food hygiene in the FSA ratings over the past five years – and we will strive to maintain and improve our ratings in the coming months and years. “We have 950 pubs, many of them open 16 hours a day, seven days a week, so it is a great achievement by our staff to maintain such high standards.” Catriona Stewart, who heads the FSA’s Food Hygiene Ratings Scheme, said: “Our latest data shows the importance of checking hygiene ratings before eating out. “We want to build on the success of the scheme over its first five years and reduce consumer risk even further – encouraging people to ‘look before they book’. “Telling people about hygiene standards in food outlets, in a way which is clear and easy to understand, has made a real difference. “We’ve seen standards improve and more and more businesses able to show their customers that they take food hygiene seriously. “It’s really easy to check the hygiene rating of a food business.” Go to the Food Standards Agency’s website: www.food.gov.uk/ratings 8 > WETHERSPOON > WINTER 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.com
FLOWERED UP: SUCCESS TIMES NINE
AT HEART OF ENGLAND IN BLOOM
Nine Wetherspoon pubs across England have been awarded at the George Hotel (Bewdley), The Bellwether (Wednesbury),
annual Heart of England in Bloom competition. The Clifton (Sedgley) and The Figure of Eight (Birmingham) all
The outlets make up almost one-third of the venues recognised in achieved a silver-gilt (75–84%), judged to be of a very high standard
the ‘hotel & pub gardens’ campaign 2015 results. and a potential gold award-winner of the future.
The Britannia, in Rowley Regis, achieved the highest gold award, Pub manager Simon Taylor is pictured with bar associate Shanise
scoring 85% and above – ‘given to exceptional achievers who have Sharpe and floor associate Miah McDermott (left to right) showing off
demonstrated a consistently high standard in all areas of the judging their award-winning flower display at The Figure of Eight.
criteria and objectives of Britain in Bloom’. The Avion (Aldridge) and The Malthouse (Willenhall) both collected
Assessed by Heart of England in Bloom judge Trish Willetts, the report a silver award, scoring 60–74%, while The Billiard Hall (West Bromwich)
said: “Probably one of the best Wetherspoon pubs with outdoor space and The Moon Under Water (Wolverhampton) each achieved
the judge has ever seen. a bronze (50–59%).
“Fantastic and welcoming front to the building, with immaculately Duty manager Dean Murphy and shift leader Shelly Osborne are
planted hanging baskets and shrubs. The beer garden was also pictured attending to the blooms at The Billiard Hall.
extremely well maintained, with appropriate planting and Pub manager Ricky Hunt said: “This is the first time we have entered
all-year-round colour. the competition, with our hanging baskets and window troughs, and
“The pub was buzzing with families, and the customer service was great. we are pleased with our bronze award at the first attempt.”
The judge spoke to several customers who were all delighted with the Les Goodman, president of the Heart of England in Bloom committee,
gardens – a real credit to Wetherspoon.” said: “I congratulate all the entries which have taken part in the Heart
Pub manager Vicki Devine (left) is pictured with team leader Tracy of England in Bloom campaigns for 2015, helping to make our region
Stanley, proudly showing off their certificate, at The Britannia. one of the most successful in the Royal Horticultural Society Britain in
Bloom national campaign.”
www.jdwetherspoon.com < WINTER 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 9
AWARDS
PHOTO CREDIT : BRIAN PICKERING
N OT T I N G H A M
LADY CHATTERLEY FEELS THE LOVE
Wetherspoon pubs in and around Nottingham have The scheme has been funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner
been recognised at the annual Nottinghamshire Best for Nottinghamshire and Nottinghamshire County Council.
Bar None awards. Tom Waldron Lynch, vice-chairman of Nottingham BID, said:
Nottinghamshire launched the very first county-wide Best Bar None “We have been working hard to encourage as many licensed premises
scheme, in October 2014; this year, 51 licensed venues in the city as possible to become accredited, as it shows that the city centre is
centre were added to the list of accredited premises. achieving high standards.”
Nottinghamshire Best Bar None is a way of recognising those pubs, The award ceremony for Broxtowe Council, part of the
bars and clubs which take extra steps to ensure that their customers Nottinghamshire scheme, also awarded two Wetherspoon pubs
are safe and have a great time when they visit. with a ‘pass with merit’-accredited venue award.
Four Wetherspoon pubs were among those listed. They are Lloyds Pub manager Hayley Robinson, who runs The Lady Chatterley
No.1 Bar, which achieved accreditation in the ‘large bars’ category, (in Eastwood) with Andrew Thompson, is pictured with Mayor of
The Roebuck Inn, The Joseph Else and The Company Inn all received Broxtowe Cllr Sue Bagshaw, together with shift manager Arthur
accreditation in the ‘large pubs’ section. Lindridge, from The Last Post, in Beeston.
Paul Draper, area manager for Nottingham, said: “We are delighted to Hayley said: “We are thrilled with the award. It is great recognition
have four pubs accredited. This just highlights the hard work and for the work we do to provide a safe and enjoyable environment
high standards achieved at our pubs.” for our staff and customers at The Lady Chatterley.”
SWA N S E A
THE BEST IN SWANSEA – A STATEMENT TO SAVOUR
The Bank Statement has been voted the ‘best Swansea city-centre
café or restaurant’, by local residents in the Welsh city.
The Wetherspoon pub topped a poll, voted for by readers of the
South Wales Evening Post newspaper, ahead of numerous dedicated
restaurants and cafés.
The newspaper’s poll asked locals to nominate and vote for their favourite
outlets – in the city centre only – and the reason for their choice.
It announced: “Swansea city centre has never been short of great
cafés and restaurants to feed the weary shopper. We’d like to know
your recommendations.”
And The Bank Statement received the most votes.
Pub manager Paul Morris, pictured second left with colleagues and
customers, said: “There are dozens and dozens of great places to eat
in Swansea, so to come top is an absolutely brilliant achievement.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate and vote for us.
“We work hard to achieve and maintain high standards, as well as offer
great choice and value, which is obviously appreciated by a lot of people.”
10 > WETHERSPOON > WINTER 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.comK I N G STO N U P O N T H A M E S
CORONATION HALL AND KING’S TUN
ELEVATED TO THE THRONE
Two Wetherspoon pubs have been recognised, in their
local annual Best Bar None award presentations.
The Coronation Hall, in Surbiton, participating in the initiative
for the first time, was voted as runner-up in the ‘best pub’ category.
It received Best Bar None Accreditation, along with The Kings Tun,
in Kingston upon Thames.
The annual Kingston Best Bar None awards, now in their ninth year,
are organised by Kingstonfirst, the UK’s first Business Improvement
District (BID).
Kingstonfirst’s director, Ros Morgan, said: “These awards are about the
team members who work hard behind the scenes to create great bars
in Kingston.
“Best Bar None celebrates their commitment to Kingston, which is one
of the best-performing centres in the UK.”
Pub manager Peter Goatley (left) at The Coronation Hall (now at The
George, Croydon), with pub manager James Cobley (The Kings Tun),
said: “We are thrilled to achieve runner-up spot, at our first attempt,
and will be aiming to go one better next year.”
NORTHFIELD
INTERWAR INN HAS LISTING STATUS UPGRADED
Built in 1929 and described by architect Basil Oliver as ‘one of the “Inside is a series of bars, dining and function rooms, including a
most sumptuous inns in the district, if not England’, The Black Horse reproduction medieval great hall, once used as the smoking room.
has been upgraded from grade II to 2-star listed status. The quality of workmanship is high, with examples from some of the
Following a campaign by Historic England to protect the nation’s best stone and wood carvers in Birmingham at the time.
historic pubs, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport has “The Black Horse’s exterior garden is terraced, with tables, plus a
deemed the Northfield pub, near Birmingham, as listed for greater bowling green and club house providing the focus of the garden.
protection, which includes the bowling pavilion, boundary walls and “These elements are common in the ‘reformed’ pubs emerging in the
garden features. early 20th century, designed to encourage visits from all members
It joins a further 20 protected establishments in the UK, built during of a family, young and old.”
1918–39, when breweries rebuilt thousands of pubs between the Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch said: “I’m delighted that these pubs
wars, in a bid to attract families and particularly women. and their fascinating history have been protected for generations to
Approximately 3,000 new pubs were built during the interwar years, enjoy for years to come.
with very few examples surviving today. However, The Black Horse, “They play an intrinsic role in English culture and our local communities
which opened as a Wetherspoon pub in July 2010, is one ‘jewel in and are more than a slice of living history.”
the crown’.
Pub manager Paul Merry (pictured) said: “This is great news, not only
Historic England says: “The Black Horse, in Northfield, is one of the for the pub, but for the local community. To have a pub of this historic
largest ‘Brewers’ Tudor’ pubs ever built. importance safe-guarded for the future is just brilliant.”
www.jdwetherspoon.com < WINTER 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 11DRINKS
HOP ON THE CRAFT RAFT
Our multinational selection of beers and ciders on draught,
in bottles and cans is growing all the time
O
ur growing selection of craft beers, at pubs across From north of the border, we bring Scotland’s BrewDog Punk IPA
the UK and in Ireland, continues to entice and excite (5.6% ABV) to the craft bar. A light golden transatlantic fusion IPA,
craft beer enthusiasts and new craft customers alike. it is a fresh, full-flavoured, natural beer and a tribute to the classic
The draught Devils Backbone American IPA (5.2% ABV) has been IPAs of yesteryear.
a favourite with Wetherspoon customers for more than a year, European craft beers also feature prominently in our bottled
since its launch in autumn 2014. range, with three hailing from Germany: Tucher Helles Hefe
Crafted from an original recipe, at the Virginia-based brewery, Weizen (5.2% ABV) is the latest to join the ranks – a light, cloudy,
it is produced here in the UK to guarantee freshness. tangy wheat beer, with a yeasty finish. This Bavarian bottled beer
beauty lines up with Erdinger (5.3% ABV) and Krombacher Pils
American Pale Ale (4.5% ABV), from Shipyard Brewing Co,
(4.8% ABV), already firm favourites.
is the latest to join the Wetherspoon craft collection.
Our American cousins join the craft beer party, with two bottled
Also available on draught, the beer is a great combination of US
offerings in our collection.
brewing and the best of British blended American hop varieties
and English barley – for a refreshing pale ale. Smooth
Californian Lagunitas IPA (6.2% ABV) is a smooth, easy-drinking
Success
fruity beer, with strong notes of grapefruit, strawberry and lime,
Following the success of Devils Backbone, this second draught
while the amber-coloured Brooklyn Lager (5.2% ABV), from
craft beer collaboration, between Wolverhampton-based
Brooklyn, New York, is a flavourful Vienna-style lager beer,
Marston’s and a US brewer, this time Shipyard Brewing Co.,
with hints of caramel and marshmallow.
is available in all participating pubs.
If your drink of preference is cider, rather than beer, our craftwork
Sixpoint Brewery, based in Brooklyn, New York, is the inspiration
choice offers three bottled options.
behind two of our exclusive canned craft beers from the US:
The Crisp (5.4% ABV) and Bengali (6.5% ABV). The newest in the range is Orchard Pig Reveller (4.5% ABV).
Lush and light, a medium, gently sparkling cider, from the award-
The Crisp, as its name suggests, is a super-clean and crisp (yet
winning ‘Rooted in Somerset’™ craft cider producer Orchard Pig,
complex) Pilsener-style lager, with light hay and straw hop notes.
it is a true celebration of Somerset!
Bengali offers an abundance of citrus hop bitterness in its blaze-
orange home-brewed IPA interpretation. The second UK offering is Aspall Suffolk Cyder (5.5% ABV),
a fruity, dry, racy, thirst-quenching drink, created to celebrate
Crafty Dan 13 Guns (5.5% ABV) is the newest addition to our
275 years of cyder-making by eighth-generation brothers
canned craft beers. The American IPA completes a great trio of
Barry and Henry Chevallier Guild.
choice in a can.
Angry Orchard (5.0% ABV), from Cincinnati, USA, completes
Wetherspoon’s bottled craft beer range showcases products from
the line-up. It is a balanced cider, with sweet, ripe apple notes
around the world, as well as offerings from right here in the UK.
up front and a dryness in the finish.
Quintessential
Choose from draught, bottled or cans, selecting a beer or cider –
The latest is London’s Meantime London Lager (4.5% ABV),
the Wetherspoon craftwork collection is there for you to discover
the quintessential English lager, bringing together East
and enjoy.
Anglia’s malting barley and Kent’s hops. The combination is a
straightforward, clean, long-matured, unpasteurised lager,
in which all you can taste is malt and hops.
12 > WETHERSPOON > winter 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.comCRAFT BEER www.jdwetherspoon.com < winter 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 13
DRINKS
LONDON, BELFAST, GLASGOW,
CARDIFF – CRAFTY CORNERS
OF THE BRITISH ISLES
Astonishing range of overseas and regional brews now available to UK-wide customers
anagers at pubs across the UK are now serving
M
Despite the extensive choice available, customers
a wide range of craft beers – on draught, are encouraged to suggest those craft beers which
bottled and in cans. they would like to try. Speak to your local pub
As well as a huge choice from overseas, pubs are manager or craft champion with your ideas.
showcasing craft beers from their local and regional
craft brewers. The selection is naturally varied and
specific, depending on the pub which you visit.
LONDON BELFAST
Pub manager Danny McCluskey offers an extensive range of In Belfast, pub manager Tommy McGibbon (pictured) supports
craft beers at his pub in north London. his local brewers by showcasing various craft beers produced in
Northern Ireland.
At The Ice Wharf, customers are able to choose from a great
selection of draught, bottled and canned craft ales from around the The Bridge House serves the three core ales, from the
world, as well as those brewed right on the doorstep, in the capital. Farmageddon Brewing Co-op, based in Comber, just 12 miles
from the pub. The trio of bottled premium craft beers is namely
The pub, located at Camden Lock, is possibly the only Wetherspoon
Gold Pale Ale, India Pale Ale and India Export Porter.
pub to date serving draught craft beer from the Bermondsey-based
Fourpure Brewing Co. Customers are able to enjoy McGrath’s Premium Irish Ales,
with The Bridge House stocking all the bottled beers from the
Danny (left), who is assisted in the selection by shift manager and
Clanconnel Brewing Company, County Down. The half dozen
craft champion Leigh Jackson (right), said: “We continually rotate
beers available, numbered one to six, are Irish Red, Irish Pale,
the five beers from Fourpure, making one available at all times.”
Irish White, Irish Black Stout, Irish Blonde and Irish Amber Ales.
This ever-changing choice includes Pale Ale (5.0% ABV),
Lisburn-based Hilden Brewing Company is also showcased with a
Session IPA (4.2% ABV), Amber Ale (5.1% ABV), Pils (4.7% ABV) and
selection, including Twisted Hop, Headless Dog and Belfast Blonde.
Oatmeal Stout (5.1% ABV). Portobello Brewing Co’s London Pilsner
(4.6% ABV) is among the local brews on draught too. A range from Northern Ireland’s largest microbrewery, Newry-
based Whitewater Brewing, is available too. Its Belfast Ale is
The Wetherspoon draught range, on the popular T-bar at The Ice
served from the cask, while bottled beers include Belfast Lager
Wharf, also includes Shipyard American Pale Ale, Crafty Dan 13 Guns
and Hopplehammer IPA, as well as Belfast Ale.
American IPA, Brooklyn Lager, Devils Backbone and Erdinger,
as well as Orchard Pig Reveller cider. Tommy said: “The local beers are proving extremely popular. It is
fantastic to be able to serve so many craft beers produced so close
to home, alongside a great range from the UK and overseas.”
14 > WETHERSPOON > winter 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.comCRAFT BEER
GLASGOW
In Scotland, customers at The Counting House are spoilt
for choice, with a range of over 150 world beers and
lagers from all around the globe found at ‘Craft Corner’.
Pub manager Mick Murphy (pictured) prides himself on
the vast range of craft beers on offer at his Glasgow pub,
especially a huge selection from Scotland-wide brewers.
Glasgow-based Drygate Brewing Co. is showcased
with its selection of craft beer, served on draught and
rotated monthly, ensuring at least one beer’s availability
at all times, among them Bearface Lager (4.4% ABV),
Gladeye IPA (5.5% ABV) and Outaspace Apple Ale (4.7% ABV).
Also among the draught craft beers served are those
from Glasgow Green-based WEST Beer. They are
St Mungo (4.9% ABV) Scottish premium lager,
Munich Red (4.9% ABV) and the classic Bavarian-style
wheat beer Tucher Helles Hefe Weizen (5.2% ABV).
Regular Scottish craft beer choices also include Edinburgh-
based Innis & Gunn’s Lager Beer (4.6% ABV) and Toasted
Oak IPA (5.6% ABV); Holyrood (5.0% ABV) pale ale and
Edinburgh Gold (4.8% ABV) from Stewart Brewing, in
Loanhead, Edinburgh; Caesar Augustus (4.1% ABV) from
Alloa-based Williams Bros Brewing Co and Isle of Skye’s
Eilean-Òr (Island Gold in Gaelic) 4.3% ABV.
Mick said: “Our extensive range of craft beers, on draught
and in bottles, is unrivalled in Glasgow. We support local and
Scottish breweries and producers, showcasing the best on
offer in the country.”
CARDIFF
Pub manager Andrew Harries offers the biggest range
of craft beers in Cardiff, at The Gatekeeper. He stocks
50 bottled craft beers, including a selection from
Welsh brewers.
Caerphilly-based Celt Experience is among the range,
with four from its collection. Ogham Oak (8.5% ABV),
Ogham Willow (8.8% ABV), Hallstatt Deity (6.6% ABV)
and Goddess of the Spring (6.0% ABV) are all available.
There is also an ever-changing selection from Celt
Experience, with one beer available at all times, including
Celt Silures (4.6% ABV), 316 Années (6.6% ABV) and
Coco Orange Paganism (7.1% ABV).
The Gatekeeper’s customers can enjoy the
Wetherspoon draught selection of Devils Backbone
American IPA, Shipyard American Pale Ale and
Erdinger, as well as Boss Bare Lager (5.0% ABV) from
Swansea-based Boss Brewing Company.
Andrew, pictured right with duty manager
James Hill, said: “We currently serve a great range
and are planning to add to our local and regional
draught selection, with a further seven on an
additional new T-bar.
“These will include craft beers from Cardiff-based Pipes
Beer, Mad Dog Brewing Co from Goyte, in south Wales,
and a bigger selection from Boss Brewing, Swansea.”
Voted runner-up in the Cardiff CAMRA cider pub of the
year 2015, Andrew also serves 17 Welsh craft ciders
on hand-pulls. The range includes those from Halletts
Cider, Gwynt Y Ddraig and Gwatkin Ciders.
www.jdwetherspoon.com < winter 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 15PUB NEWS QUEENS OF HERTS REGALLY REGALED Managers and staff at The Star welcomed a royal visitor to the pub Customers can see the paintings, which have been restored and in Hoddesdon. preserved, and are now protected by a glass-and-oak screen, as a HM Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, The Countess of Verulam, central feature of the pub, which opened in December 2014. Queen Elizabeth II’s representative in the county, was visiting the Pub manager Rachael Fisher said: “We were honoured to host the area in support of its application for royal borough status. royal visit, as part of the borough’s year of heritage, and The Countess The tour, which included viewing the 16th-century paintings at of Verulam was very interested in the paintings at the pub.” The Star, was intended to give The Countess of Verulam a better Pictured left to right are team leader Katie Snow, kitchen manager understanding of the borough’s royal past and connections. Michael Holliday, pub manager Rachael Fisher, area manager Angie The series of six mid- to late-16th-century Tudor wall paintings, of Caulfield, HM Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire The Countess of great historical and national significance, was discovered behind Verulam, the Worshipful the Mayor of the Borough of Broxbourne panelling at the pub during the renovation. Councillor Martin Greensmyth and his wife Lesley. SAVOY’S IDEAL FOR FIRST DRAFT AND FIRST DRAUGHT, SAYS AUTHOR National press journalist and author Lance Cole spends a lot of time in Wetherspoon pubs. He is pictured (left) with Liam Stack, pub manager at The Savoy, in the ‘book corner’ at the pub in Swindon, Lance’s home-from-home. Lance launched his new ‘nerds’ book, Secret Wings of World War II, published by Pen and Sword. The book details World War II science and how the Allies used seized German aeronautical technology to build advanced modern aircraft, as well as getting to the moon. Lance said: “Only part of the wartime science story has been previously told – and the deeper details of what went on are fascinating. “Today’s ‘Stealth’ technology has its roots in 1945 Germany, as do the delta-wing jets like Concorde and the Vulcan.” Speaking about The Savoy, Lance added: “I like writing, sitting in the corner of The Savoy, where the food is superb and the staff brilliant. It’s my favourite Wetherspoon pub.” 16 > WETHERSPOON > WINTER 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.com
NEWS
THE WORLD'S INN INDOOR BEER TENT BRINGS
ALE FANS A FESTIVAL FEEL
IS WITHOUT SIN
Pub manager Sandy Moccia hosted a five-day ale festival to mark the 40th
anniversary of her local Bradford Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch.
Sandy, who runs The Sir Titus Salt, transformed a side room at the Bradford
pub into an indoor ‘beer tent’, with a stillage serving the 18 local ales.
The range, from nine breweries, included Saltaire Blonde (4.0% ABV)
from Shipley-based Saltaire Brewery, The Black Knight (6.0% ABV) from
Ilkley’s Wharfe Bank Brewery, Keighley-based Goose Eye Brewery’s Over
and Stout (5.2% ABV) and the pub’s own Sir Titus Salt Ale (4.0% ABV)
from Baildon Brewing Co, in Baildon.
Sandy said: “We have a great relationship with our local CAMRA
members, who hold some of their branch meetings at the pub.
“We wanted to do something to mark the 40th birthday for them – and
this showcase of local ale was the perfect event.
“Congratulations to my duty manager, Sophie Chamberlain, for organising
a successful festival.”
A tombola, with prizes donated from the local breweries, also raised
funds for CLIC Sargent.
Sophie is pictured with (left to right) team leader John Townsend,
Bradford CAMRA branch chair Brian Mitchell and branch membership
secretary and regional co-ordinator Adrian Mellow.
Kitchen manager James Bryant and team leader Joe Mackay TOM’S THE CONDUCTOR AS
proudly show off their five hygiene rating at The World’s Inn,
Romford, Essex.
ALE BUS BARRELS ALONG
The pub received the top food hygiene rating from environmental
health officers at Havering Council.
The food hygiene inspections are undertaken at local level on behalf
of the government’s Food Standards Agency.
Inspectors judge outlets, including The World’s Inn, on not only
how clean they are, but also the way in which food is managed
on the premises.
Each of the businesses is then rated against the same criteria,
including hygiene, as well as structural and confidence in management.
The pub’s manager, Daniel Griffin, said: “I am delighted that the pub
has gained the top rating.
“Standards of hygiene at the pub are of paramount importance.
“Staff work hard to ensure that the pub offers its customers the
highest levels of hygiene at all times – and we are delighted that our
efforts have been recognised with the five rating.”
An old London double-decker AEC Routemaster bus was packed
full of real-ale enthusiasts on a tour of the Llyn Peninsula.
UNITED’S NEW £36M STRIKER The real-ale trip, organised by duty manager Tom Jones, was made
HITS THE BAR up of locals, regular customers, real-ale-drinkers and Campaign
for Real Ale (CAMRA) members from The Black Bull Inn, in Bangor,
Footballer Anthony Martial is settling in to his new life in the north Wales.
northwest, following his transfer from Monaco to Manchester United.
On the tour, they visited two other Wetherspoon pubs in Gwynedd,
Within days of joining United the 20-year-old forward was spotted stopping at Tafarn Y Porth (Caernarfon) and Pen Cob (Pwllheli).
with his wife Samantha and baby daughter at Wetherspoon.
Tom said: “The bus was full, everyone had a great time and
The young family dropped into Mardi Gras for a meal, during feedback was fantastic. We also managed to raise £140 for
a shopping trip at the Trafford Centre. CLIC Sargent – which was brilliant.”
www.jdwetherspoon.com < WINTER 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 17PUB NEWS GUIDE DOG TRACEY GOES TO WORK SO OWNER CAN DO TOO The York Palace, in Llanelli, has welcomed an enthusiastic new worker – guide dog Tracey. The two-year-old Labrador accompanies bar associate Julie Richards from her home to her job. While Julie works behind the bar, Tracey settles down in a special pen, away from the bustle of the busy bar. Julie, who has worked at the pub since April 2013, has retinitis pigmentosa, which causes a loss of peripheral vision. She said: “Tracey has settled in very well. The York Palace is an old cinema and, when we arrive at the glass doors, she knows to wait. “We go through the glass wash area and downstairs to get to her pen. She is happy in there with a toy – and there are plenty of staff going back and forth who enjoy seeing her. “Although I have central vision, I can’t see around myself or in the dark. “It means I don’t always see customers coming from the side; so, when it’s busy, I scan the bar to see who is next. “I know all of the customers’ names and what they drink. They don’t even have to ask.” The pub’s manager, Ben Edwards, said: “Julie is good at her job and popular with both staff and customers. “It is great for us, as a pub and a company, to be helping her to accommodate Tracey while she works. “Tracey is well behaved in her pen while Julie works – and all the staff love her. They give her a lot of attention.” Guide Dogs Cymru provided Tracey for Julie. They are both pictured with pub manager Ben Edwards and guide dog mobility instructor Caroline James. CURRY AND BEER FUEL 1,000-MILE UPHILL RIDE One thousand miles cycled in 10 days, 100,000 Calories consumed (most at Wetherspoon pubs) and 80,000 Calories burned – that was the charity challenge for two regular customers at The Wheatsheaf Inn, in Kilmarnock, who cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats. Andy Waddell (left) and Dale McCormack, pictured outside their local with shift manager Alan McMillan, completed the challenge, raising a fantastic £5,200 for The Prince & Princess of Wales Hospice, in Glasgow. The pair are also pictured toasting their journey end with Champagne, at John O’Groats. Andy said: “In 10 days, we also managed to visit 10 Wetherspoon pubs, from south to north, in Penzance, Chepstow, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Preston, Lancaster, Carlisle, Kilmarnock, Fort William and Inverness. “The contents of the big veggie breakfast, curry, Mexican and every other theme night helped to get us through the adventure – as did the odd pint of beer! “And, to avoid any withdrawal symptoms, we then joined our pal Michael Murphy at The Counting House, Glasgow, the following day – for a few celebratory drinks – as well as since joining up with the team at our local The Wheatsheaf Inn, to share the stories of our adventure.” Despite the hills, head winds, rain, fully booked hotels, wasp stings and the fact that ‘you canny cycle through the Mersey tunnel’ – the pair completed the trip successfully. 18 > WETHERSPOON > WINTER 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.com
NEWS
LIB DEM LEADER CURRIES FAVOUR
Liberal Democrat leader Tim
Farron is pictured being
interviewed by ITV’s political
correspondent Romilly Weeks, at
The Miles Thompson, in Kendal.
The interview took place two
days before the Lib Dem autumn
conference in Bournemouth.
Mr Farron is a regular visitor to
the pub in his constituency of
Westmorland and Lonsdale, and his
interview took place on Curry Club
night – a particular favourite of his.
Mr Farron said: “The Miles
Thompson is a great pub
– and I chose it to do my interview
with ITV because the pub is at the
heart of town.
“I really enjoy Curry Club and
always have a local real ale to
go with it.”
Pub manager Amanda Hollins
said:" We were delighted that
Mr Farron chose our pub for the
interview and trust he enjoyed
his visit."
BAR BARD
AUTHOR DAVE GETS HIS KICKS ON ROUTE 63 INSPIRED BY
SURREAL ALE
Wetherspoon customer
and experimental poet
Winston H. Plowes has
written a poetry book,
much of which has been
inspired by his local
Wetherspoon pub in
Halifax, The Percy Shaw.
The book, entitled
Telephones, Love Hearts
and Jellyfish: poèmes
surréalistes de l’observation
de boissons, is a book of
surrealist poems.
Winston said: “The poems
are composed from the
shapes and patterns
discovered on the sides
of glasses of beer, coffee
Author and journalist Dave Hadfield chose The Velvet The new book, with a foreword by Sky Sports cups and other beverages.
Coaster as the venue for the launch of his latest book. presenter Dave Clark, starts early on the morning I hope they will have a
Originally from Blackpool, he selected Wetherspoon’s of Dave’s 63rd birthday, when he walked out of his broad appeal to audiences
newest and largest pub in the Lancashire seaside front door and caught a bus… of drinkers, poets and the
town to promote ‘Route 63: Around England on a It was the first stage in an epic journey which would general public alike.
Free Bus Pass’. take him around the furthest-flung corners of his “Many of the poems were
He is pictured with duty manager Richard Parfitt native England, showing it to him from a completely composed in Wetherspoon
outside the pub where the book launch attracted new angle. outlets, in fact, more than
great interest, with speeches and the opportunity to Heading south along the Welsh borders, west to in any other pub.”
secure a signed copy of the book. Land’s End, along the south coast to Dover, through l Published by
Well known locally, Dave was a schoolboy convert to London and up the eastern side of the country Electric Press and
rugby league – the game which, one way or another, to Newcastle, through the Pennines and the
available to buy online
has dominated his life ever since. Lake District, then back home to Lancashire – he
and to order through
chronicles what he sees and hears on an itinerary
After working for newspapers in Shropshire and which involves over 100 local buses. all leading bookshops,
Blackpool, where he covered the fortunes of priced £7.99.
Blackpool Borough, he travelled the world, working Better still, he does it all for nothing – on a bus pass
ISBN 978-0-9568979-3-0
mainly in Hong Kong and Sydney. He became for which he qualified through Parkinson’s disease.
The Independent’s rugby league man in 1990, has Undeterred by that disability, he explores the land For more information:
written five books on the game and broadcasts he loves, with a keen eye and ear for the absurd. www.winstonplowes.
extensively for Sky and the BBC. l Visit: http://tinyurl.com/owves8w co.uk
www.jdwetherspoon.com < WINTER 2015 < WETHERSPOON < 19ALL HAIL THE ALE WO LV E R H A M P TO N PIONEERS LAND AT MOON AFTER RELAUNCH Shift manager Adam Tonks (front centre) has teamed up with his Adam said: “We had approximately 40 people at the young people local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch to promote real ale meeting. They enjoyed a chat and presentation with the three brewers. and attract new members. Each talked about what they do, how each brewery started and the Adam, who works at The Moon Under Water, in Wolverhampton, brewing process. hosts a monthly CAMRA event at the pub, as part of a relaunch of “It was a chance to appreciate the great contrast in brewery size, from Wolverhampton CAMRA’s youth events. Banks’s massive operation to two local microbreweries. The branch holds various events, either in house at the pub or visits “Many of our regular customers also joined in, with the evening starting and ending there, appealing to a younger audience, including a great success.” a music quiz night and brewery tours. The monthly events, which are held every third Thursday, are open The launch kicked off with a meet-the-brewers event at the to CAMRA members and non-members of all ages. pub, with a presentation by Beowulf Brewing Company, from Also pictured (left to right) are Phil Bennett (Beowulf Brewing Company), Brownhills (Staffordshire), Walsall-based Backyard Brewhouse and Karen Williams and Amanda Sambrooks (Wolverhampton CAMRA), Wolverhampton’s Banks’s Brewery. Simon Yates (Banks’s Brewery) and Tom Buckland (Backyard Brewhouse). L I N CO L N REEL ALE FLICKERS INTO LIFE AT RITZ Ritz, in Lincoln, has teamed up with a local brewery to celebrate the pub’s heritage as a cinema. A new beer, the copper-coloured ‘Reel Ale’ (5.0% ABV), has been developed and brewed by Newark-based Milestone Brewing Co, especially for the pub. Milestone brewer Ken Munro, pictured with shift manager Claire Barthorpe, was at the Ritz to launch the new brew. He also hosted a meet-the-brewer session, with special guests from the local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) group. Area manager Joe Sanderson said: “With the features in our pub still screaming ‘traditional picture house’ and the cinema project upstairs really taking off, we consider this to be a huge celebration of what we represent in our city. “The fantastic effort from Ken to brew this beer for us is also testament to the relationships being developed between Wetherspoon and local brewers all over the UK.” Originally designed by Leslie C Norton and built for Central Pictures (Lincoln) Ltd, it first opened as the Ritz cinema in February 1937. The foyer and stalls of the building opened as the Ritz, a Wetherspoon pub, in May 1998. 20 > WETHERSPOON > winter 2015 > www.jdwetherspoon.com
ALL HAIL THE ALE
SITTINGBOURNE
KENT AND SUSSEX BREWERS ANSWER THE SUMMONER’S CALL
Peter Pethers, pub manager at The Summoner, in Sittingbourne,
organised an ale festival, showcasing beer from breweries across
Kent and Sussex.
The 10-day event took place at 48 Wetherspoon pubs across both
counties, serving 19 ales, each from a different producer, including
a specially made brew for the event.
Before the festival, craft champions from the pubs visited Rockin’
Robin Brewery, in Maidstone (pictured), to learn about craft beer
and the brewing process.
They also brewed Peacemaker (4.4% ABV), the beer headlining the festival.
Peter, pictured front (second left), said: “Thanks to the team at
Rockin’ Robin, we had a great day there and put together a fabulous
beer for the event.
“The festival, which brought together a fantastic collection of ales,
really showcased the quality and range available in Kent and Sussex.”
From West Sussex the selection was Hophead (3.8% ABV) from Dark
As well as Peacemaker, other Kent beers included were Coppernob Star Brewing in Partridge Green; all from Horsham-based breweries
(3.8% ABV) from Tonbridge Brewery; Imperium (4.0% ABV) from were Firebird Brewing Co’s Pacific Gem (4.2% ABV), Kissingate’s Black
Canterbury-based Wantsum Brewery; Edenbridge-based Westerham’s Cherry Mild (4.2% ABV) and Red River (4.8% ABV) from King Beer;
Spirit of Kent (4.0% ABV); Spitfire Gold (4.1% ABV) from Shepherd Hammerpot’s Red Hunter (4.3% ABV) and Arundel Brewery’s Autumn
Neame in Faversham; Ashford-based G2 Brewing’s Vela (4.2% ABV); Breeze (4.6% ABV) were both from Arundel and Petworth-based
Altered States (4.7% ABV) from West Malling-based Kent Brewery. Langham’s Arapaho (4.9% ABV).
W H I T BY C I T Y O F LO N D O N HULL
WHALE OF AN ALE WOTTA LOTTA OTTER FANTASTIC FOUR
MAKES SPLASH AT BARLEY’S BIRTHDAY BROUGHT TOGETHER BY
IN WHITBY BASH POWER OF THOR
Pub manager Robbie Douglas (left) is
A ‘battle of the brewers’ event, at The Angel pictured with Paul Nunny, managing director
Hotel, saw customers decide on a permanent of Cask Marque, at the start of Cask Ale Week.
cask ale to be served at the Whitby pub. Robbie’s pub, The Crosse Keys, in the City
Shift manager Matthew Osborne organised of London, a haven for real-ale enthusiasts,
for four local breweries to come head to was the venue for the launch of this year’s
Shift manager and festival organiser Emma
head, each supplying a session ale for the Cask Ale Week.
Thorley is pictured centre with representatives
one-day contest. The initiative, facilitated by Cask Marque,
from four local breweries.
The one which sold out the quickest was celebrates Britain’s national drink. It
deemed the winner, with the prize to encompasses various events, festivals, Emma organised a local ale festival at
have the beer as a permanent choice at promotions and tastings, with more than The William Wilberforce, Lloyds No.1 Bar, in
The Angel Hotel. 1,000 taking place in pubs and breweries Hull, launching the event with a meet-the-
throughout the UK during the 11-day event. brewers fair.
Whitby-based Whitby Brewery’s offering
was the amber Whitby Whaler (4.0% ABV); At The Crosse Keys, the occasion was marked Pictured left to right with Emma are Paul Hicks
York-based Rudgate Brewery supplied its with a ‘fringe’ festival, celebrating the 50th from Barnsley-based Acorn Brewery, Chris
blond ale Jorvik Blonde (3.8% ABV); Wold anniversary of Maris Otter malted barley. Hird from Crystalbrew in Brough, Ben Costello
Top Brewery in Driffield added Wolds Way With the help of Norfolk Brewhouse and grain from Driffield-based Wold Top Brewery and Mat
Pale Ale (4.0% ABV); Crook-based Fat Brewer merchant H Banham, most of the beers were Breslin from The Hop Studio in Elvington, York.
supplied its Blonde (4.0% ABV). brewed especially for the event. Among the beers being served were Acorn
Pub manager Phil Tindle said: “Whitby Paul Nunny said: “This beer festival is a great Brewery’s Gorlovka Imperial Stout (6.0% ABV),
Brewery won with Whitby Whaler, but the example of activity which sparks interest in a full-bodied deep malt and hoppy stout
result was fairly tight, with Wold Top Brewery’s our national drink. It ensured that Cask Ale with liquorice; Crystalbrew’s Summer Breeze
Wolds Way coming in a close second.” Week started with a bang, putting pub-goers (3.8% ABV), a pale and refreshing session ale;
Pictured at the event (front left to right) are into an exploratory, cask-drinking mood.” India (5.0% ABV), The Hop Studio’s clean and
brewers Richard Wells (Whitby), Craig Lee Robbie said: “We have a huge real-ale malty India Pale Ale; Wold Famous Headland
(Rudgate), Ben Costello (Wold Top) and Brian following here at the pub and were only too Red (4.3% ABV), Wold Top’s mellow malty-
Yorston (Fat Brewer) with staff members pleased to be involved with this event. flavoured red beer.
(back left to right) team leaders Chris Reed “Thanks to the guys at Norfolk Brewhouse for Emma said: “It was a great opportunity to
and Alex Lawrence, shift leader Rachel Elder, their help with the Maris Otter ale selection, support and showcase some of our local
shift manager Matthew Osborne and bar it was a great way to showcase some breweries, with customers having the chance to
associate Andrew-James Marsey. specially brewed and exclusive beers.” sample some of the fantastic local ales available.”
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