Darlington Drinker - Issue 186 - Spring 2013 by Capital Media

Darlington Drinker N E W S L E T T E R O F T H E D A R L I N G T O N C A M PA I G N F O R R E A L A L E

E! FRasE e take Ple a copy

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

IN THE FINAL FOUR

Darlington Snooker Club is a ﬁnalist in CAMRA’S National Club of the Year

IN THIS ISSUE... • A PRE-CHRISTMAS OUTING • COMMUNITY PUBS MONTH • QUAKERHOUSE REPEATS THE FEAT Plus Much More.... www.dar locam r a.or g.uk Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 1

22/01/2013 15:42

Darlington Drinker

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 2

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:42

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

FROM THE EDITOR

Darlington Drinker

The Buck Inn Thornton Watlass, Bedale

Country Inn Overlooking the Village Green

elcome to Issue 186 of Darlington Drinker and the first issue of 2013. Having taken over as editor, firstly I would like to thank Vron Burningham for all her hard work as editor in producing the last few issues. She in turn took over from Brendan Boyle, our longstanding editor so I guess it’s fair to say I have a couple of hard acts to follow. Meanwhile, congratulations go to Peter Everett and the staff at Darlington Snooker Club on reaching the final four of CAMRA’s National Club of Year for 2012. It’s certainly no mean achievement considering the number of clubs serving real ale which are eligible to enter the competition, and more significantly the snooker club has managed to reach this stage by beating previous winners of the competition. The overall result is due in February. Following the closure of the Arts Centre in summer last year which had been the venue for our beer festivals, plans are being made to possibly stage a festival hopefully later on the year. We will have more details in the next issue of Darlington Drinker. Finally, thank you to everyone who took part in voting for their favourite branch town and country pubs of the year in plus their overall favourite. The winners will again go forward to represent the branch in regional competitions and hopefully we can repeat the same successes as last year.

Ian Jackson Editor, Darlington CAMRA

REACH 6000+ REAL ALE DRINKERS & PUBGOERS Full Page: Half page: Quarter page:

£225.00+vat £125.00+vat £65.00+vat

Book all four editions & receive a 10% discount. Free design. To book call Capital Media on

01636 302 302

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 3

FIVE REAL ALES ALWAYS ON PUMP

including local independents Quality Home-Cooked Meals Lunch & Evenings 7 Days A Week | Bar Open All Day Beer Garden | Children’s Play Area | Function Room

En-Suite Accommodation

SUNDAY LUNCHTIME JAZZ

February 3rd - Alligator Gumbo February 17th - Brain Carrick & The Heritage Hall Stompers March 3rd - Frisco Bay Hot Stompers March 24th - The Harriers Jazz Band April 7th - Gavin Lee’s New Orleans Band April 21st - The Rae Brothers with John Lawrence on trumpet

Call 01677 422461 or Visit www.buckwatlass.co.uk CONTACT DARLINGTON CAMRA Website: www.darlocamra.org.uk Twitter: @darloCAMRA Facebook: DarloCamra

OTHER CONTACTS Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. 230 Hatﬁeld Road, St. Albans, Herts, AL1 4LW t: 01727 867 201 • e: camra@camra.org.uk • www.camra.org.uk Trading Standards t: 01325 388799 • e: tradingstandards@darlington.gov.uk

PUBLISHED BY Capital Media Midlands Limited 2 Halifax Court, Fernwood Business Park, Cross Lane, Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, NG24 3JP. t: 01636 302 302 • e: darlingtondrinker@thisiscapital.com www.thisiscapital.com Disclaimer: The views expressed in articles are those of individual contributors and are not necessarily the views of the Darlington Branch, The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. Darlington CAMRA accepts no liability in relation to the accuracy of advertisements; readers must rely on their own enquiries. It should also be noted that acceptance of an advertisement in this publication should not be deemed an endorsement of quality by Darlington CAMRA. © 2012 Capital Media Group. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be transmitted, reproduced, recorded, photocopied or otherwise without the express written permission of the copyright holder.

www.darlocamra.org.uk

22/01/2013 15:42

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

IN THE FINAL FOUR by Ian Jackson

ollowing the announcement of winning CAMRA’s North East Club of the Year in August, Darlington Snooker Club received the award on the afternoon of Saturday 4th November during one of its Booze n Cues Festivals, in front of a large audience including CAMRA members from the north east branches. North East Regional Director David Brazier, right in picture, presented proprietor Peter Everett with the award citing the club as an outstanding winner due to the warm welcome given by Peter and the staff plus the commitment to real ale it shows, which always includes ones from local micros. Peter thanked all the staff at the snooker club along with CAMRA members attending the presentation and was thrilled to win the award for the eighth time beating off competition from clubs

in Chester-le-street, Newcastle, Sunderland and Haltwhistle in Northumberland. Darlington Snooker Club has now won CAMRA’s Super Regional Round heat and made it into the ﬁnal four of the National Club of the Year competing against Nunsﬁeld Social Club in Alvaston on the outskirts of Derby, Cheltenham Motor Club in Cheltenham and Leyton Orient Supporters Club in Leyton in East London. Very well done and the best of luck goes Peter and all the staff in this next round - now go on and win it! On 27th February Darlington Snooker Club will be celebrating its 98th birthday and Peter has plans to celebrate this occasion – maybe alongside the National Club of the Year award?

Annual General Meeting & Members’ Weekend 2013 The next Members’ Weekend & AGM will be taking place at St Andrews Hall in Norwich on 19th – 21st April 2013. Norwich is a beautiful city packed with medieval buildings and quality pubs including 2012 GBG pubs Take 5 and The Vine. The city is also home to four breweries, plus there are another 20 within the surrounding area, many of whom will be providing their beer for the Members’ Bar.

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 4

S F

It is free to attend Conference. The only thing you will need to pay for is your travel and accommodation, and perhaps some money for a few very reasonably priced drinks from the Members’ Bar.

The event takes place at: The Halls, St Andrews Plain, Norwich, Norfolk NR3 1AU. t: 01727 867201 or e: camra@camra.org.uk

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:42

DARLINGTON

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

SNOOKER CLUB

FOR THE BEST VALUE GAME OF SNOOKER IN DARLINGTON

10 FULL SIZE TABLES OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Sun to Thurs: 11am - Midnight Fri & Sat: 11am till Late

FOUR QUALITY CASK ALES There’s always something to suit your taste!

Comfortable TV Lounge Parties Catered For

SUPER REGIONAL FINALIST NE CLUB OF THE YEAR 2011/2012 Further Accolades: • CAMRA North East Club of the Year 2004-2008

Buffets can be supplied to fit every budget

• Good Beer Guide 2005-2012

Junior Classes Sunday 9-11am. No Junior

• FIRST Snooker Club to be voted CAMRA Club of the Year

classes on Saturdays.

School Groups Welcome Professional coach available

• FIRST Snooker Club to appear in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide • FIRST Snooker Club to have it’s own major beer festival

CAMRA MEMBERS FREE ENTRY ON PRODUCTION OF MEMBERSHIP CARD

1 CORPORATION ROAD, DARLINGTON, DL3 6AE • t: 01325 ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013 Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 5

• e: peterdsc@yahoo.co.uk 241388www.darlocamra.org.uk | 5

22/01/2013 15:42

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

QUAKERHOUSE REPEATS THE FEAT

by Ian Jackson

ranch members have been busy once again voting for their favourite town and country pubs in our branch area along with their overall favourite for the branch’s pub of the year competition. In the Town Pub of the Year competition, it was the Quakerhouse in Mechanics Yard which once again pipped Number Twenty-2 on Coniscliffe Road to win the award. Joint third were the Old Yard Tapas Bar in Bondgate, third in last year’s competition and the Old Well in Barnard Castle. In the Country Pub of the Year competition, the Crown Inn at Manﬁeld once again topped the voting, making it the eleventh time licensees Peter and Karen Hynes have won the award. Second place was a tie with The Stanwick in Aldbrough St John tying with last year’s runner up the Forester’s Arms in Coatham Mundeville. The overall Branch Pub of the Year winner was once again the Quakerhouse, thus managing to repeat the feat of 2012, making it the ninth time it has won the Pub of the Year award. Co-licensee Garry Hewitt said winning the award again was, “Fantastic. Big big hugs all round to all.

Whooppeeeeee!!!”. The runner up spot was a tie between Number Twenty-2 and the Crown Inn at Manﬁeld. Thanks to all the branch members who voted and congratulations go to our award winners with the presentations due to take place soon.

D.D. TEN YEARS AGO... “Beer prices rose by almost twice the rate of inflation in 2002, according to a survey by members of Darlington CAMRA. A pint of standard strength real ale (less than 4.5% alcohol) in the town cost an average of £1.87 at the end of the year, that’s 9 pence or 5.2% higher than at the beginning of 2002. The official inflation rate was 2.7%. Stronger beers went up by even more - an average of 15 pence, or 8.7% up to £1.94. A total of 64 prices were recorded of 39 different cask conditioned beers in 19 Darlington pubs and bars, however any “Happy Hour” prices and special offers were excluded. Some pubs froze the prices of some of their beers completely during the year, while some others saw stinging rises of 20 pence or more. Darlington CAMRA has been monitoring beer prices since the early 1980s.”

10 A co

Fos sel spi

No we Th

We ch • • • •

A R B B M • B

Op Clo

Darlington Drinker Issue 145, Feb/Mar 2003

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 6

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:43

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

Darlington Drinker

The Quakerhouse

REAL ALE & ROCK / BLUES BAR - LIVE MUSIC EVERY WEEK ACOUSTIC MONDAYS

10 hand pulls - 9 real ales & 2 real ciders. A rotating selection from all around the country.

Fosters, Strongbow, Stella 4, Guinness, Westons ‘Old Rosie Cider’ plus a selection of bottled ciders, lagers, and Vitis Mead also available. Wines and spirits also on offer.

Now CAMRA Pub of the Year 2013, for the ninth time, and we were also honoured with a Bronze Award in the Regional Pub Of The Year 2012. We pride ourselves in the beer, the service and our music. Please check out the events page on our website for further information. • • • •

Acoustic Night - Mondays Rock Night - Wednesdays Busk-It - Monthly open mic night on first Tuesday + live backing band Blues Lounge Sessions (hosted by Alex Fawcett & Danny Wragg) Monthly open mic night on a Thursday for blues music • Bluegrass/Skiffle Night - Last Sunday of every month Open 7 Days a Week - from 11am. Closing Times Vary - M - 11:30pm / Tu, Th & Su - 11pm / W, F & Sa - Midnight

WWW.QUAKERHOUSE.CO.UK

February Mon 4th Mon 11th Mon 18th Mon 25th March Mon 4th Mon 11th Mon 18th Mon 25th April Mon 1st Mon 8th Mon 15th Mon 22nd Mon 29th

Paul Dannett & friends Two Hogs Dave Cadman & friends J.B Butterfield Paul Dannett & friends Gilly & Alan Dave Cadman & friends Tim Lowe Paul Dannett & friends Jiab Dave Cadman & friends Jake Holt (tbc) Paul Dannett & friends

ROCK WEDNESDAYS February Free entry Wed 6th JIAB before 8pm Wed 13th On The Rocks - £4 Wed 20th Out After Dark after 8pm Wed 27th The Switch March Wed 6th Jump The Gun Wed 13th Thyn Lizzy Wed 20th Victims of the Fury Wed 27th Under The Radar April Wed 3rd The Rogues Wed 10th The Lewis Hamilton Band Wed 17th Roadrunners Wed 24th Spectrum

OTHER NIGHTS February Tue 5th Busk - It Thu 21st The Blues Lounge Sessions Sun 24th Willow Creek Tue 26th The Quaker Folk Gathering March Tue 5th Busk -It Thu 21st The Blues Lounge Sessions Sun 24th Willow Creek Tue 26th The Quaker Folk Gathering April Tue 2nd Busk - It Thu 18th The Blues Lounge Sessions Tue 23rd The Quaker Folk Gathering Sun 28th Willow Creek

2 Mechanics Yard | Darlington | DL3 7QF | t: 07783960105 | e: info@quakerhouse.co.uk

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 7

www.darlocamra.org.uk

22/01/2013 15:43

Darlington Drinker

BEER DUTY

ew ﬁgures show that since the policy of raising beer duty by two per cent above inﬂation was introduced by the Labour Government in 2008, more than 5,800 pubs have closed and the number of pub-goers has fallen by three million. Mark Anderson, managing director of Maxim Brewery, in Houghton le spring, said: “The increase of beer duty of 42 per cent has actually caused a direct pub increase of 88 per cent equivalent to 38p per pint.” “It is beyond belief that the country’s unique drink is not protected to an equivalent basis of that of France or Italy. The escalator is an unfair tax on the beer, pub trade and the drinking public.” The escalator, introduced by thenChancellor Alistair Darling is due to last until 2014-15. Mark added: “The majority of the drinking public do so as a safe social recreation and in the majority of cases this supports their local community pub. Beer is Britain’s national drink and British pubs are unique in the world and should be supported by Government and local authorities.”

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

‘’The country’s beer drinkers are saddled with one of the highest rates of tax in Europe, and a 106,000- signature Government e-petition has already forced a Parliamentary debate on the issue however changing government policy is not going to be done overnight, we must all continue to lobby for change wherever we can.’’

SAVE PUBS, SAVE JOBS, SAVE YOUR PINT

SIGN THE E-PETITION www.camra.org.uk/saveyourpint

BRANCH WHO’S WHO? Chairman: Peter Everett t: 01325 241388, e: peterdsc@yahoo.co.uk Secretary & Branch Contact: John Magson e: john.magson@ntlworld.com Treasurer: Colin Chidzey e: colin.chidzey@gmail.com Membership Secretary: Mike Burningham e: mikeb09@btinternet.com

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 8

Darlington Drinker Editor: Ian Jackson e: newsletter@darlocamra.org.uk Social Secretary, Pubs Ofﬁcer & Cider Ofﬁcer: Pete Fenwick t: 01325 374817, 07889 167128 e: mithril58@btinternet.com www.darlocamra.org.uk Twitter: @darloCAMRA Facebook: Search DarloCamra

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:43

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

GREENBANK HOTEL

Darlington Drinker

Langdon Beck Hotel Forest-in-Teesdale | On the B6277 | 01833 622267

WWW.GREENBANKHOTEL.CO.UK A family run Hotel/B&B, based only 5 mins stroll from the historic town centre.

Regular beers include Black Sheep Best Bitter & Rivet Catcher (Jarrow Brewery’s award winning real ale) Recommended in the Good Beer Guide from 2007-2012

We have 27 very comfortable bedrooms with some superior themed rooms. A welcoming atmosphere awaits. Enjoy an amazing display of militaria whilst relaxing in our well stocked bar.

A FINE SELECTION OF REAL ALES

DELICIOUS HOMEMADE MEALS Available: Lunch 12-2pm, Dinner 7-9pm

90 Greenbank Rd Darlington DL3 6EL t: 01325 462624

STUNNING VIEWS OVER THE FELLS ACCOMMODATION from £40 OPEN ALL DAY - Reopens Mondays, Easter Onwards Middleton - 7 miles, High Force & Cauldron Snout waterfalls - 3 miles

w w w .lan g d o n b e c k hote l .c om

D A ILY FOOD DE AL S Mon: 20% Off

Eat In Or Take-away

Our menu – including homemade specials.

Tues: Free Dessert

When purchased with a main course from our regular menu.

Weds: 2-for-£10

Choose any two main courses from our regular menu or the daily specials.

Thur: 2-for-1 on all Desserts When purchased with main courses.

Two main courses plus a bottle of house wine*

*or 2 pints of selected soft drinks (draught Pepsi or Lemonade) or draught beers (any Real Ale or Carlsberg)

25% Off Sunday Lunches: Throughout all of February.

W EEK EN D LIVE MUSIC

Sunday 3rd Saturday 16th Saturday 2nd Saturday 16th Saturday 23rd Saturday 30th Saturday 6th Saturday 13th Saturday 20th

February February March March March March April April April

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 9

22 Galgate Barnard Castle County Durham DL12 8BH

Fri: 2 Meals & 2 Drinks Deal £17.50

4.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm 8.30pm

Heavy Mod New Age Jam WunderDogs Police Cover-Up Uncle Gilbert KRANK-it-up Ballbreakers Six Nowt Rabble Rousers

t: 01833 908179

COACH & HORSES

A traditional local, lots of character & a warm welcome

Traditional Home Cooked Food 3 Rotating Guest Ales

Opening Times Sun - Wed, 12pm-11pm Thur - Sat, 12pm-12am

Pub Games, Quiz Nights & Regular Live Entertainment Accommodation • Beer garden Free WiFi • Family & Pet Friendly

www.marstonspubs.co.uk/thecoachandhorses www.darlocamra.org.uk

22/01/2013 15:43

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

WHAT’S YOUR LOCAL UP TO? by Ian Jackson

ith around twenty pubs still closing every week, it is now becoming more and more important than ever to support pubs which are the heart of our community. Due to high beer tax, high rents charged by pub companies and cheap deals offered by supermarkets, pubs are forcing to close their doors resulting in communities losing their local. Following the successful launch in April 2012, CAMRA’s Community Pubs Month will once again take place again during April this year to promote pubs as a valuable community asset and a local meeting place. Mike Benner, CAMRA Chief Executive said, “Pubs are the beating hearts of countless communities across the land and without their existence society would be a lot worse off.” “CAMRA’s campaign is all about reafﬁrming the vital importance of local pubs and the essential role they play in many people’s lives. CAMRA’s research shows people turn to their local pub during meaningful events, so whether you are a real ale lover or someone who enjoys the weekly quiz down your local, pubs are a core part of our identity and heritage.” The four CAMRA branches in the north east will be working with pubs in their area to hold events

showcasing the important part they play in April. Each branch has been allocated a particular week to gain publicity on a regional basis to promote their pubs and Darlington CAMRA has been allocated the week running from Monday 1st to Sunday 7th April. If you are a licensee in our branch area and are interested in staging an event to promote your pub during this week, please contact us at events@ darlocamra.org.uk giving details of any events you would be interested in planning.

COMMUNITY PUBS MONTH

HIGH QUALITY CASK ALES, INCLUDING 8 REGULARLY CHANGING GUEST BEERS • A wide selection of spirits, cocktails, wines & bottled beers • Jonny Maracas Bar - Available for private parties • Greek Nights - Last Tuesday of the month OPEN 7 DAYS

Posters, beer mats & other promotional material are available for CAMRA members and licensees to order FREE from the website: www.communitypubsmonth.org.uk

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 10

Authenticity, Hospitality & Exceptional Ambience

2010 & 2011 OVERALL WINNER

Spanish Tapas, Greek Mezes & other authentic continental dishes

tapas for 2 - £15.99

EVERY LUNCHTIME & SUNDAY - THURSDAY EVENINGS

98 BONDGATE, DARLINGTON, DL3 7JY • T: 01325 467385 BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.TAPASBAR.CO.UK

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:43

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 11

Darlington Drinker

www.darlocamra.org.uk

| 11

22/01/2013 15:43

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

A PRECHRISTMAS OUTING by John Magson

hat to do for a pre Christmas drink? No problem, a trip to York to check out some of Yorkshire’s Heritage Pubs. Meeting up at York station, we retired to the York Tap to plan the day ahead and whilst doing so we enjoyed Magic Rock’s Curious and Highland Brewery’s Christmas Lights. The Tap has been tastefully developed from the old model shop that stood there and was a pleasant venue to start with. First port of call was the Olde Starre which has an old inn complex feel to it and boasts a historic bar screen. Whilst in Stonegate we went to The House of Trembling Madness but the two beers they had on hand pump were of high gravity and were judged not to be suitable for so early in the day. Near the Minster stands The York Arms, a Samuel Smiths pub, which at one time had lots of small rooms, which have now been opened out, but still retains some of the original elements. Along to the Royal Oak in Goodramgate, which has a Tudor style interior of three rooms which were reconstructed in 1934 by local brewery owners John J Hunt. A long walk to the Black Swan turned out to be a disappointment, not with the pub which was built in a medieval house and has a superb interior, 12

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 12

but with the staff and after waiting 15 minutes for them to serve two customers we walked out. A short walk to Fossgate brought us to the Blue Bell, which to our horror had ‘Private Party’ posters on the door, but we were invited in. This pub is a gem with its genuine Edwardian interior, bar and smoke room and we sat by the welcoming open ﬁre drinking Bradﬁeld Farmers Blonde and Rudgate Ruby Mild and we were very reluctant to leave. Another long walk took us passed the Lighthorseman on Fulford Road, which we had hoped to visit but was shut and so we proceeded to the Wellington on Alma Street. This is a classic terraced back street pub serving Samuel Smiths beers and the interior layout, which comprises of a bar and two small lounges, has survived from the 1850s. Walking back past the Lighthorseman, we moved on to the Masons Arms. This was rebuilt in 1935 in a Tudor style and still retains some of the original Gothic Revival features. A non-heritage diversion followed to the Wetherspoons Postern Gate for a meal, after which we went to the Slip Inn ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:43

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

Darlington Drinker

then on to the Swan in Clementhorpe, which like the Blue Bell, is a not to be missed pub. A near intact Thirties remodelling of a Victorian street corner pub it boasts one of the best- preserved interiors of its kind in the country. A stand up lobby, bar and old smoke room are all served via a hatch and many of the original features remain. A short walk thankfully in light rain took us to the Golden Ball which is a 1929 remodelling by brewer John Smith’s of a small Victorian local. By now train time was approaching so we called into the Volunteer Arms for drinks near to the station, these being Treboom’s Yorkshire Sparkle, Leeds Yorkshire Gold and best named of the day ‘Mongrel Good Beer No Pedigree’ from Marston Moor. Many thanks to all who compiled the CAMRA’s Yorkshire‘s Real Heritage Pubs publication and to York Branch for the information in Ouse Boozer as these were very helpful on our outing. ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 13

www.darlocamra.org.uk

| 13

22/01/2013 15:43

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

BRANCH PUBS OF THE SEASON by John Magson

nce again, it was a busy year for branch members as they toured our area seeking out pubs and clubs to which we could award our seasonal pub awards. The ﬁrst award was made in January for the County Durham Pub of the Season and we had joint winners: The County in Aycliffe Village and The Blacksmiths Arms at Preston le skerne. Overlooking the village green, The County (right) was originally three 17th century cottages with some of the original features still remaining. There is a large open plan bar which serves up to four guest beers from local micro breweries and three dining areas in which to enjoy the excellent food make this a warm and comforting place to enjoy a night or day out. Back in 2000, the then Prime Minister Tony Blair entertained French Prime Minister Jacques Chirac at The County and Marston Moor Brewer’s Droop was Tony’s tipple that night !. The Blacksmith’s Arms (below left) is a welcoming free house situated on the Newton Aycliffe to Great Stainton road, known locally as the “Hammers” and a former CAMRA Country Pub of The Year. Extended in recent years, the pub has an excellent reputation for good food and this is complimented

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 14

by up to three real ales which are mainly from local microbreweries. Interestingly, it has its own helicopter landing pad but please don’t drink and ﬂy! The award for North Yorkshire Pub of the Season went to the 19th century Stanwick (below right), overlooking the green in the picturesque village of Aldbrough St John. Up to ﬁve real ales are served and locally sourced food is available every day. Accommodation is also available providing a good base for exploring the Yorkshire Dales and Teesdale. Back to the urban scene and the Darlington Pub of the Season went to the Old

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:43

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

Darlington Drinker

Yard Tapas Bar (right) in Bondgate. This has a unique mix of being a Mediterranean tapas bar and a real ale pub. Up to ﬁve guest beers are served, and along with the upstairs restaurant the downstairs dining area has recently been extended. There is also an outside area in warmer weather. The worthy winner for Teesdale Pub of the Season this time was the Old Well (below left) in Barnard Castle which has a well in its 17th century building and part of the castle wall forms a boundary to the enclosed garden. Up to ﬁve guest beers are served here and regular beer festivals are held. Food and accommodation are also available. Congratulations to the winners and also to the other eight highly commended pubs in our Pub of the Season awards competition.

NUMBER TWENTY2 Traditional Alehouse & Canteen

Our town centre, classic Victorian pub with roaring fire & traditional decor has a welcoming feel

Enjoy our 13 REAL ALES & 9 CONTINENTAL BEERS on tap - that’s 22 at NUMBER TWENTY2 We also serve the largest variety of wines in Darlington, with twenty wines available by the glass. We also provide a small range of Malt Whiskies (Stronachie, Auchentoshan and Bruichladdich. cask no 1558) as well as a fine Cognac.

Darlington CAMRA Pub of the Year 2008 Campaigning on behalf of lovers of real ale Sandwiches and hot dishes are served lunchtimes,12 - 2pm

‘Quite simply a superb ale house” Paul Allan 22 Coniscliffe Rd, Darlington 01325 354 590

www.villagebrewer.co.uk ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 15

Open 6 Days A Week: Monday - Saturday

www.darlocamra.org.uk

| 15

22/01/2013 15:43

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

CHEERS ALISTAIR! by Eric Larkham

orth East beer, food and business writer Alastair Gilmour has been awarded the Regional Writer of the Year 2012 award by the British Guild of Beer Writers for his work in Cheers North East. Cheers, a free monthly magazine which Alastair edits, promotes pubs and everything that goes on in them whether it is beer, music, dogs in front of the ﬁre, or architectural features. Basically he has a passion for pubs and beer that he wants to share, so he’s absolutely delighted with this latest accolade which goes alongside winning the same award a number of times when he was writing for The Journal and Darlington’s Northern Echo newspapers. “This award isn’t just for me,” said Alastair, pictured. “It’s for every microbrewery, pub, pub-goer

THE

and musician in the North East. We’ve got something here we should be very proud of which I’m fortunate enough to be able to shout about in the press, so thank you to everybody who has, often unwittingly, contributed to our stories in Cheers and this welcome bit of success.” Cheers North East magazine is available in a number of real ale outlets in Darlington including The Britannia, Number Twenty-2, Quakerhouse and The Quays and also village pubs in our branch area such as both the Bay Horse and George and Dragon in Heighington, The County in Aycliffe Village and the Crown Inn, Manﬁeld.

BRITANNIA INN

“A Bastion of Cask Beer for over 150 years” Good Beer Guide 2010

• Cameron’s Strongarm • John Smiths Cask • 4 Guest Ales Winner, 2007 & 2008: Town Community Pub of the Year Runner-up, 2007 & 2008: Darlington Town Pub of the Year Opening Times: Mon - Wed:11.30-3pm & 5.30-11pm Thur - Sat: 11.30-11pm. Sun: 12-10.30pm

1 Archer Street (just off Bondgate) • Darlington • Tel: 01325 463787 16

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 16

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

NEWS & EVENTS In November last year, Aldbrough St John based Mithril Ales brewed a beer especially in honour of the Poppy Appeal, an appeal which is really important to support the men, women and families of both serving and previous serving armed forces. For every pint that was sold Mithril Ales donated 10p to the appeal. On Saturday 10th November Pete Fenwick, owner of Mithril Ales presented a cheque for £70 to Colin Tennick who is the standard bearer for Aldbrough Branch of the British Legion and Steven Harwood, treasurer for the British Legion’s Area Head Ofﬁce.

BRANCH DIARY FEBRUARY Sat 2nd – North East Regional Meeting, 1pm Darlington Cricket Club, Feethams South, Darlington. Fri 8th – 2nd North Yorkshire Pub of the Season Surveying Trip, 7pm. Going to Scorton x 2, Atley Hill, East Cowton, North Cowton & Dalton-on-Tees. Tues 12th – Branch Meeting, 7.30pm Glittering Star, Stonegate, Darlington. MARCH Fri 8th – 3rd North Yorkshire Pub of the Season Surveying Trip, 7pm. Going to Great Smeaton, Hornby, Appleton Wiske, West Rounton & Welbury. Wed 13th – Branch Meeting, 7.30pm Voodoo Cafe, Skinnergate, Darlington.

Quaker Tours • Saturday 16th February - Mini North East Crawl to the Boathouse at Wylam, Beamish Mary Inn at No Place and The Stables Brewery Bar at Beamish Hall near Beamish. Depart Dolphin Centre at 9.45am, £13 per person. • Saturday 16th March - Trip to Hawkshead Spring Beer Festival at the Beer Hall, Staveley, Cumbria. Depart Dolphin Centre at 9.30am, £15 per person. Return from Staveley at 4.30pm with a 1hr ‘comfort’ stop at Croglin Castle Hotel, Kirkby Stephen. Both tours arrive back in Houndgate at approx. 7.30pm John & Gordon hope to see faces old and new on our ‘not for proﬁt’ social outings. Email replies to: john.reed263@ntlworld.com APRIL Tue 9th – Annual General Meeting, 7.30pm Old Yard Tapas Bar (upstairs), Bondgate, Darlington. Fri 12th – 4th North Yorkshire Pub of the Season Surveying Trip, 7pm. Going from Middleton Tyas to Kirby Hill, pubs still to be decided. MAY Tue 7th – Branch Meeting, 7.30pm Darlington Snooker Club, Corporation Road, Darlington. Fri 10th – Outer Darlington Pub of the Season Surveying Trip, 7pm. Pubs still to be decided. Sat 25th – Langdon Beck Hotel Beer Festival & Teesdale Pub of the Season (Upper Teesdale) Surveying Trip, 11.30am. All trips: Leave from round the corner from The Dolphin Centre & return there. Open to members & non members. Visitors & new members are always made welcome.

For details of all trips please call Pete Fenwick on 01325 374817 or 07889 167128

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 17

www.darlocamra.org.uk

| 17

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker

Darlington CAMRA’s ‘Teesdale Pub of the Season Winner’

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

The Old Well Inn Eat Well,l, Drink Well, Sleep Well...

Welcoming bar and lounge, separate restaurant, r nt airy conservatory & a lovely enclosed beer garden. 10 en-suite bedrooms are beautifully and individually furnished with character and charm. Well behaved dogs & children welcome

5 Cask Ales always kept in tip top condition

• Acoustic Music Evening - Thursdays from 8.30pm • Quiz night - Tuesdays from 8.30pm • Lunch 12 - 2.30pm & Dinner 6.30pm - 9pm • Don’t miss our famous Sunday Lunch - please book to avoid disappointment

The Old Well Inn | 21 The Bank | Barnard Castle | DL12 8PH | 01833 690130

w w w . t h e ol d wellinn.co.uk

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 18

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:44

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

Darlington Drinker

DO YOU WANT CONDENSED MILK WITH THAT? by John Magson

uba conjures up visions of white beaches, dusky maidens, macho men, rum and Communism and not the place you would think to ﬁnd a microbrewery, but yes there is one situated in the heart of the capital Havana. Armed with scant knowledge of its location and with the help of the local population, we stumbled upon the Factoria Plaza Vieja in a large square in the capital. The micro brewery was set up in 2004 by an Austrian company and has all the comforts of a European beer hall which serves three well crafted unpasteurised beers: Amber, a light lager style beer; Dark, a strong Ale and Black which looks like Guinness but tastes like Newcastle Brown (more of this later). Unusually the beers were served in pint dimple glasses but for the more adventurous you can order a self service tower which holds 5/6 pints of beer and is similar to the Czech giraffe dispenser. All the brewing equipment is inside the large hall and they were brewing on the day of our visit and it was pointed out that all the ingredients have to be sourced via Canada or Mexico due to the continuing trade embargoes imposed. Outside there is a large seating area where you are entertained by local bands usually playing Guantanamera (sorry I mentioned this as I know you will be humming it all day) and a good selection of inexpensive local food is served. Back to the “Dark side”, as we were inside ordering our beers we noticed that the bar staff were pouring condensed milk into pint glasses and topping it up with the Dark beer and lots of the locals were drinking this so we asked what it was ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 19

they were serving. It turned out that this is a popular drink called Malta and usually comes in bottles in the style of a German Malzbeer which is then mixed with condensed milk and has the reputation of being refreshing and energy giving but believe me it is an acquired taste and reminded me of the Boddington’s television advert with Melanie Sykes where she asks ‘Do you want a ﬂake in that love?’. The beer and the atmosphere was so good that the three of us missed the tour bus back to the hotel and had to stay all afternoon (shame!) and we

then enjoyed a Cadillac taxi which raced back at around 70 mph back to the hotel to end a near perfect day. p.s. Are you still humming that song? www.darlocamra.org.uk

| 19

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker

MALCOLM LEEMING REMEMBERED by Ian Jackson

arlington CAMRA members were recently saddened to hear the death of branch member Malcolm “Mally” Leeming following an illness. Malcolm, pictured, was a familiar ﬁgure at the branch’s twice yearly beer festivals held at the Arts Centre working behind the cask ale bar. “When it came to beer festivals, Malcolm was one of those people who you could set your watch by when it came to opening up”, branch member Ian Jackson quipped. “He would walk in just as the festival was about to open, take his coat off and start to serve customers!”. John Winterburn, another festival worker also added, “I really had some good times working behind the bar in Malcolm’s

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

company”. Malcolm enjoyed his beer during the festivals and jokingly a ‘slops’ bucket had a “For the Attention of Mally Leeming!” notice on it at a festival a couple of years ago! Malcolm also held the position of social secretary and took the branch on some interesting brewery visits and pub crawls - his motto was “Tell me where you want to go and I’ll arrange it!”. Malcolm was also known for having an infectious laugh and you always knew when he was in Wethe haveroom. been awarded the "Local Produce Champion & Quality Assured" award A forlongstanding the third year in succession by Taste - a local Tourist member ofDurham Darlington Board initiative. CAMRA who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

An historic 17th century coaching inn located in beautiful Teesdale & the Durham Dales

A Warm Welcome Awaits... • Real Ales • Award winning home-cooked food • Lovely en-suite B&B rooms • Weddings & Functions Market Place, Middleton-in-Teesdale, County Durham, DL12 OQG

01833 640264

ww w.te e sda leh otel.co.u k 20

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 20

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 21

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

The Lord Nelson Family run pub in the lovely village of Gainford

3 COURSE VALENTINES MEAL £39.95 per couple Thurs 14th Feb

CHINESE NEW YEAR BUFFET All You Can Eat £12.00 10th & 11th Feb, 6pm-9pm

Booking Advisable

• Sunday Carvery from 12 noon - 3pm • Beer Garden & Live Music • Open 12 noon - Late • CAMRA's Good Beer Guide 2012

Main Street, Gainford, DL2 3DY • Tel : 01325 733233

C o A w C

Save up to

40%

Because we print magazines, event programmes and newsletters for hundreds of clubs, associations and businesses across the UK, we can pass excellent trade printing prices on to you.

Name

To the

With free UK delivery and an excellent service, it’s easy to see why we’re the first choice for magazine and brochure printing.

Addres

> Get a price today at www.programmeprinting.co.uk

Name

Need help or advice?

Branc

0115 824 1234

Bank

Refer

www.darlocamra.org.uk

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 22

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker

DARLINGTON CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALE

Join CAMRA Today

Complete the Direct Debit form and you will receive 15 months membership for the price of 12 and a fantastic discount on your membership subscription. Alternatively you can send a cheque payable to CAMRA Ltd. with your completed form, visit www.camra.org.uk/joinus or call 01727 867201. All forms should be addressed to Membership Department, CAMRA, 230 Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 4LW.

Your Details

Direct Debit

Title ____________ Surname ___________________________________ Forename(s) _________________________________________________ Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) ____________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _______________________ Postcode __________________________ Email address _______________________________________________ Tel No(s) ____________________________________________________

Partner’s Details (if Joint Membership) Title ____________ Surname ___________________________________ Forename(s) _________________________________________________

Single Membership (UK & EU)

£23

Joint Membership £28 (Partner at the same address)

Non DD

£25 £30

For Young Member and concessionary rates please visit www.camra.org.uk or call 01727 867201. I wish to join the Campaign for Real Ale, and agree to abide by the Memorandum and Articles of Association. I enclose a cheque for _________________ Signed ______________________________ Date ________________________________ Applications will be processed within 21 days

Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) ____________________________________

Campaigning for Pub Goers & Beer Drinkers

Enjoying Real Ale & Pubs

Join CAMRA today – www.camra.org.uk/joinus Instruction to your Bank or Building Society to pay by Direct Debit Please fill in the whole form using a ball point pen and send to: Campaign for Real Ale Ltd., 230 Hatfield Road, St.Albans, Herts, AL1 4LW Name and full postal address of your Bank or Building Society To the Manager

Bank or Building Society

Service User Number

9 2 6 1 2 9 FOR CAMPAIGN FOR REAL ALES LTD. OFFICIAL USE ONLY

Address

This is not part of the instruction to your Bank or Building Society.

Membership Number Name Postcode

Postcode

Name(s) of Account Holder

Instructions to your Bank or Building Society

Branch Sort Code

Please pay Campaign For Real Ale Limited Direct Debits from the account detailed on this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Campaign For Real Ale Limited and, if so will be passed electronically to my Bank/Building Society.

Bank or Building Society Account Number

Reference

Signature Date

Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit Instructions for some types of account.

ISSUE 186 | SPRING 2013

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 23

This Guarantee should be detached and retained by the payer.

The Direct Debit Guarantee • This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay by Direct Debits. • If there are any changes to the amount, date or frequency of your Direct Debit The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. will notify you 10 working days in advance of your account being debited or as otherwise agreed. • If you request The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. to collect a payment, confirmation of the amount and date will be given to you at the time of the request. • If an error is made in the payment of your Direct Debit by The Campaign for Real Ale Ltd. or your bank or building society, you are entitled to a full and immediate refund of the amount paid from your bank or building society. - If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when The Campaign For Real Ale Ltd. asks you to. • You can cancel a Direct Debit at any time by simply contacting your bank or building society. Written

confirmation may be required. Please also notify us. www.darlocamra.org.uk | 23

22/01/2013 15:44

Darlington Drinker - Issue 186.indd 24

22/01/2013 15:44