Ale Cry 123 - Summer 2019

EE FR

Ale

FIGHTING FOR DRINKERS’ RIGHTS IN THE HEART OF LANCASHIRE SINCE 1973

Cry

issue 123, summer 2019 03 05 07 10

Pub of the season: Yew Tree South Ribble Scene Central Lancs Ale Train Ale Cry Visits… Skipton

13 14 16 18

Brewery News Cricket Clubs Historic Preston Pubs: Part 6 Longridge Libations

20 22 24 26

Rileys Rambles The Price of Your Pint – Revisited Preston Parade Chorley Chatter

CENTRAL LANCASHIRE BRANCH

Chairman’s Welcome

W

elcome to our Summer 2019 edition of Ale Cry. Here’s hoping that this year, Summer is long, warm and sunny.

I think it’s fair to say that there has been some controversy in recent times about “keg versus cask” and indeed, there have been several articles in recent issues of our magazine that have picked up on this debate and made some valid and interesting points on both sides of the discourse.

My personal preference is to drink cask ale. This is the reason that I originally joined CAMRA many years ago. CAMRA defines real ale (cask) as “beer that is produced and stored in the traditional way and ferments in the dispense container to produce a reduction in gravity. It is also dispensed by a system that does not apply any gas or gas mixture to the beer other than by the traditional Scottish air pressure system.”

I believe that there is nothing better than a well kept pint of beer that meets this definition (apart from several pints).

But does this mean that I don’t like keg beer? No it doesn’t. I have tried many different keg beers, of which there are plenty to choose from, with some of our micro-pubs having as many (or more) keg lines as real ale pumps. Some of them were great, others not so but it is all about personal taste. So whilst I have enjoyed some keg beers, my preference remains for cask. However, I don’t believe that it is my place to tell other people what to drink, that is a matter for each of us individually. I’m just glad that we are drinking in times where there is such a great choice for all beer drinkers. I know that some CAMRA members will agree whereas others will not share my views and that’s OK. What this highlights is the dilemma faced

by CAMRA just now. If we remain true to our origins and campaign only for real ale we are seen as out of touch, irrelevant, written off as dinosaurs. If we embrace new trends for keg beers and the breweries producing them, we are seen as having lost our way, selling out and abandoning our roots. We are criticised whatever we do and whichever way we go.

I know that this debate will continue but a final word of reassurance for anyone worried about the possibility of cask losing the battle against keg. Thornbridge, a major new-wave brewery, is producing more cask beer today than at any time since it opened. Chief executive Simon Webster said that he was determined to move the brewery away from the image of real ale as a flat, brown beer.

His brewing team has developed an exciting range of beers, ranging from flat white pale ale to ice cream porter. BrewDog and Cloudwater, both announced recently that

2

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

Branch Contacts Chairman DAVE BELL t: 07900 565281 e: chairman@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Membership Secretary JOHN SINGLETON t: 07456 914048 e: membership@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Treasurer DAVE WOOLCOCK e: treasurer@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Secretary & Webmaster GORDON SMALL t: 01772 746118 e: secretary@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Pubs Officer RICHARD LANGFORD t: 07974 799224 e: pubsofficer@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Pub Protection Officer DAVE LINLEY t: 07981 518506 e: pubprotection@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Cider Officer POST VACANT e: cider@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

they were returning to cask beer production.

Both have been implacably opposed to cask for some time – several years in the case of BrewDog – and this was further proof of brewers meeting a genuine demand for real ale. Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery, dating from 1698, launched Cask Club in February, a major promotion for the style, with a new beer every month.

The Faversham brewery owns 332 pubs and produces 220,000 barrels of beer a year.

Head brewer Mike Unsworth echoed Simon Webster at Thornbridge when he said he wanted to shake off the old-fashioned image that cask ale sometimes projects. “We want to bring more people to what we believe is one of the best drinks in the world,” he said.

As ever, if you have any thoughts, comments or feedback, please get in touch with us via email, you will find a contact list in this magazine, or better still, come along to one of our forthcoming meetings or events. Please also remember to visit our website www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk for all the latest information and local news and if you are on Facebook, please search for CAMRA Central Lancs and like our page. In addition, you can now follow us on Twitter, search for CAMRA Central Lancs.

We also produce a monthly newsletter which is emailed to Branch members on the 1st of each month. If you are not receiving this, it will be because we do not have an up to date email address for you. Please get in touch and let us have your email address and we will add you to our list of recipients.

Kind Regards DAV E B E L L

Branch Chairman

Social Media Officer STEWART GRIEVE e: socialmedia@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry Editor ADRIAN SMITH t: 07495 448555 e: editor@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Social Secretary SIMON CROWE t: 07852 165024 e: social@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Young Members CATHERINE BEVAN e: youngmembers@centrallancs.camra.org.uk www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk @CAMRA_CentLancs CAMRA Central Lancashire Branch All material copyright © Central Lancs CAMRA No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission.

Disclaimer: Views expressed in this magazine are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the Editor, Branch Committee or CAMRA nationally. Central Lancs CAMRA accepts no liability in relation to any advertisement or article and recommends the reader make their own enquiries. It should also be noted that inclusion of an advertisement in this magazine should not be deemed an endorsement of quality by Central Lancs CAMRA. Design & Layout: Stewart Grieve Design Ltd e: stew@stewartgrieve.co.uk www.stewartgrieve.co.uk Printed by: Printplus, Cocker Avenue, Poulton-le-Fylde, FY6 8JU t: 01253 299620 www.printplusgroup.com Front cover: Black Bull, Penwortham

of Pub the season

SUMMER 2019

Yew Tree ANGLEZARKE

T

here can be few more idyllic locations for a country inn than that of the Yew Tree, nestled on the edge of the West Pennine Moors between Rivington and Anglezarke reservoirs. On first inspection you’d be forgiven for thinking this low-level stone property, with all its olde worlde charm has always been a beer house but this is not entirely true.

In the early 1800s the property, then known as Dill Cottage was a grocers providing fresh produce to the local community, as well as housing a communal bakery; it was not until 1871 that part of the cottage was converted into a beer house providing much needed refreshment for the local labour force including the stone masons from nearby Leicester Mill Quarry.

Whilst times may have changed the Yew Tree today still maintains a clear focus and commitment to the local businesses and customers alike. Current manager Olivia Henthorn reinforces this view and says, “We are passionate about serving delicious, locally sourced food and drinks, including of course, real ale. We are proud and incredibly privileged to work in such a wonderful location and enjoy sharing it with our guests”.

With a wide range of gins, wines and soft drinks and up to four

changing cask ales brewed no further afield than Clitheroe there is something to suit every palate and to compliment an extensive menu of freshly cooked local produce for which the pub is widely renowned. Ales from Horwich’s Blackedge Brewery including their own aptly named Anglezarke Ale are regularly found alongside others from local independent breweries such as Northern Monkey and Bowland.

A relaxing afternoon enjoying a drink on the terrace with uninterrupted views over the reservoir to Rivington Pike and Winter Hill beyond leave you under no illusion as to why the Yew Tree Inn has been awarded this year’s Pub of the Season for Summer 2019. Our congratulations go to Olivia and all the staff.

Presentation of this award will be on Thursday 25th July from about 8pm, and all are welcome.

RICHARD LANGFORD

BREWERY & TAPROOM OPEN EVERY FRI & SAT

12PM TO 10PM

’ T E R C E S T P E K T S E B ‘PRESTON’S www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

3

Branch Pub of the Season Summer 2017

4

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

SOUTH RIBBLE SCENE

I

n the last Ale Cry it was stop press news that Penwortham was about to get its second micropub, the BARREL & BEAN CO at 110 Leyland Road, housed in premises that had previously been occupied by a tanning and beauty salon. Styled as a café bar, and with food available all day, this new establishment opened on Friday March 15th just ahead of St Patrick’s Day when there was an official launch complete with Irish themed entertainment. The bar is owned by local businessmen Andy Dickinson and Ken

Masterton, and initially it was selling three handpumped beers all from Three B’s Brewery. More recently it was one of the first outlets announced that would be selling the new Crankshaft Brewery beer Foggy Gold. About a month after the opening, facilities at the Barrel & Bean were greatly improved, with an outside drinking area being created to the rear of the building.

The first micropub in Penwortham was of course the TAP & VINE @ 69, which was our Spring 2019 Pub of the Season. The presentation of this award was made in late March to a packed house and there was a terrific selection of beers available for us to try.

Another new outlet for real ale is the CRANKSHAFT BREWERY TAP, which opened on Saturday April 6th. Located on site at the Crankshaft Brewery premises in an industrial unit on Boxer Place in Leyland, this is a bar with very limited opening times, being open just Fridays and Saturdays with hours 12noon to 9pm, although at other times there will be shop facilities. The brewery tap has two handpumps, with at least one cask ale being available at any time from the growing

range of Crankshaft Brewery beers. Also on sale, for those preferring them, are three keg beers plus a German keg lager.

Incidentally this has become the second onsite brewery tap in South Ribble, with the BEER BROTHERS BREWERY BAR having opened on Ranglet Road at Walton Summit in 2017.

About a year ago it was announced that the former Walton-le-Dale Conservative Club on Chorley Road had been acquired by new owners with the intention that part of the building would be converted into a micropub. At the beginning of 2019 there were rumours that this establishment could be opening in February, but in the event this did not materialise. In April an article appeared in the Lancashire Post indicating that this micropub was ‘due to open soon’, while it was also revealed that it was to be called the TAPS AND WINE BAR. Hopefully by the time that the next Ale Cry is produced, we will have some more definite information about this new venture.

The latest news concerning the WEAVERS ARMS is not so promising. This is the micropub which the Withy Arms Group people wanted to set up at the former ‘Gone Fishing’ shop on Station Road in Bamber Bridge. A second application for the building to have a change of use into a micropub has been rejected by councillors, this happening despite there having been a recommendation that the planning application be approved subject to certain conditions.

Meanwhile some good news from Bamber Bridge is that work is going on at YE OLDE HOB INN to get the pub re-opened after the destruction caused by the fire in September 2018. A building which apparently dates back to 1616, there is now a new thatched roof in place, as work is carried out to renovate the interior which was severely damaged structurally.

Finally, we are always receiving comments that certain pubs are not mentioned enough in Ale Cry. With so many pubs in the branch area this is inevitable.

However, with a little space still available in South Ribble Scene this month, I thought it a good opportunity that I take a brief look at a selection of pubs that have not been featured in these pages for quite some time.

First I paid a visit to the ANCHOR at Hutton, a pub which a few years back had a refurbishment after a lengthy period of

closure. The pub has four handpumps, but on a Saturday visit there was just one beer available, Robinson’s Dizzy Blonde. Next, I called in at the FLEECE on Liverpool Road in Penwortham. This is a pub that has six handpumps, and often has six different beers available, with Lytham Brewery beers quite often making an appearance.

On the day of my visit there was a choice of four beers – Greene King IPA, Ruddles Best Bitter, Hardy & Hansons Bitter, plus the house beer Fleece Bitter which is produced

by Greene King.

Staying in Penwortham, the SIR TOM FINNEY on Central Drive, is a pub which has been revitalised in recent years after a problematic spell when the pub had a relatively quick turnover of licensees. On the day of my visit there were three beers available, Marston’s 61 Deep, Bombardier Golden Beer (when did there become

two shades of Bombardier?), and Sharp’s Sea Fury. Finishing off, I called in at the BROWN HARE on Millbrook Way in Penwortham. Many may consider this to be more of an eating establishment, but there is usually still a good choice of cask ales for the beer drinker. However perhaps a little disappointing on the day, the beers available were Marston’s Pedigree, Wychwood Hobgoblin, Wychwood Hobgoblin Gold, and Wainwright. Incidentally both the Sir Tom Finney and the Brown Hare operate a loyalty card scheme whereby customers can regularly earn themselves a free pint by collecting a stamp each time they have purchased a beer.

GORDON SMALL www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

5

QU TH

U

?

RS

GHT

Central Lancs Community Pub of the Year 2018

IZ NI

M D AY 9 P

A warm and friendly atmosphere with great beers, wines & spirits, welcoming customers and a beautiful beer garden awaits you at…

THE BLACK BULL INN

of Penwortham

In CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide 2012–19

Enjoy a wide range of drinks

The ONLY Penwortham pub in the GBG 2019

• Cask Ale — Two permanent house ales (Theakston’s Best

& Robinsons’ Dizzy Blonde), a rotating CAMRA LocAle Lancashire guest ale, plus two national guest ales • Lagers — Birra Moretti, Kronenbourg 1664, and Fosters • Ciders — Strongbow, Dark Fruit, and Cloudy Apple • Guinness • Extensive range of gins, vodkas, and malt whiskys • Range of wines and prosecco • Low/non-alcoholic drinks available • Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate

Enjoy all the big sporting occasions, as well as the horses, on the 3 large HD screens indoors, and a garden screen in good weather

FREE

Dogs are welcome!

… but no children - sorry

On Stagecoach route No 3 – Pope Lane

Opening times Monday–Thursday 12–11 • Friday 12–Midnight Saturday 11–11.30 • Sunday 12–11 20p off a pint for CAMRA card carrying members

@BlackBullPenwor black.bull.penwortham

6

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

Telephone 01772 752953 mail@blackbull-penwortham.co.uk

83 Pope Lane, Penwortham, Preston PR1 9BA www.blackbull-penwortham.co.uk

Back on the Rails?

the (Central Lancashire) Ale Train

B

ack in the Summer 2017 Ale Cry I suggested people try our very own version of the Pennine Ale Train which runs between Batley and Stalybridge.

Since then the problems of getting anywhere or (more accurately) getting back by rail have been well documented and confidence in the system reached rock bottom. More recently that confidence has begun to return so, as Summer is here again, it may be a good time to rediscover what a cracking day out it is, travelling between stations with a pub within a fairly short walking distance – all selling real ale of course.

The route starts at Preston or Adlington and stops at all stations in between, including Buckshaw Parkway, dependent on the opening hours of all pubs included.

I suggest starting at the furthest point and making your way ‘home’ but either way it is only around 25 minutes. There are trains roughly every hour during the day with an extra one thrown in at tea time and it’s the same going in the other direction. It’s worth checking the times of the next trains before you leave but Northern Rail produce a booklet for Route No. 27 available at railway stations.

I started the trip at Adlington by ascending to Railway Road, turning left to the main junction then right on Church Street for a couple of hundred yards to the SPINNERS ARMS, a regular Good Beer Guide entry. Up to 7 changing real ales are available, with a good range of breweries covered. Food is available and is reputed to be good and well priced. Since I did the original trail a new micropub has opened just

ADLINGTON

CHORLEY

BUCKSHAW PARKWAY

LEYLAND

PRESTON

across the road, this being JR’S ALE HOUSE. There are 5 handpumps, with 2 serving Marston’s beers and the other 3 being from local micro breweries.

A 5 minute rail journey takes you to Chorley where there is a good choice of pubs in a very short distance. (Ed: the previous version of this article caused some dispute amongst licensees over which pub is closest to the station, so we have altered it slightly to save further discussions!) If exiting on the town centre side of the station, the nearest pub is the ALE STATION. Cross the bypass and continue straight ahead down Chapel Street and after about 30 yards you will find it. It’s a smart micropub and a regular Good Beer Guide entrant, serving up to 6 changing beers from local micro breweries, including a dark or mild, plus real cider. Food offerings are restricted to crisps, but there are a couple of takeaways a few doors down if you are hungry. A few yards away on the other side of the road is Chorley’s first micropub, the SHEPHERDS’ HALL ALE HOUSE, a previous branch pub of the year and consistent GBG entrant. Here you will find 5 ales from local micros to choose from, with a good range of styles and strengths.

If you leave the station on the other side, the nearest pub is the RAILWAY on Steeley Lane, with up to 5 Marston’s stable beers available.

If you turned left on to Friday Street, in 100 yards you will arrive at the MALT ‘N’ HOPS, the 2016/17 branch Pub of the Year and also a GBG regular. Here you have a choice of 9 changing beers from Lancashire and Yorkshire micros, including a mild and a stout. Filled rolls and pork pies are usually available.

Back on the train, 3 or 4 minutes brings you to Buckshaw Parkway and something a bit different. A longer walk for a start – about 400 yards. Head towards Tesco then turn right on the road before it. At the roundabout go straight on towards the industrial unit surrounded by beer barrels and enter the FILLING FACTORY NO 1. Opened in www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

7

November 2016, this bar is housed within Morrow Brothers Bottling and Canning Plant. There are up to 3 ever changing real ales and up to six interesting ‘craft beers’. Cask beer is likely to feature locally brewed beers in the main. Opening hours are limited and closing time may vary dependent on trade, but it is recommended if at all possible. There does not appear to be any food but Tesco’s is on the way there or back.

7 minutes or so on the train takes you to Leyland. Leave the station from Platform 1, cross the car park, past the large Italian restaurant and 20 more yards to the GOLDEN TAP ALE HOUSE. Leyland’s 2nd micropub is a previous branch Pub of the Season and a GBG entrant since it opened. It offers 6 changing cask ales usually including two dark beers sourced from micro breweries from far and wide, together with a wide range of craft beers. Once again small snacks are available, or takeaways are located further round on Chapel Brow.

Back on the train for 6 minutes takes you to Preston. Through the booking hall and up the station approach road brings you to Fishergate. Cross over, turn right and in 50 yards you are at the OLD

THE WHEATSHEAF Spendmore Lane, Coppull, Nr Chorley, Lancashire

PR7 4NY

3 ever changing Cask Ales – including Prospect, Bank Top, Blackedge, Martland Mill & Coach House

VIC. Another regular GBG entrant serves up to 7 changing real ales and has some food at lunchtimes, although there are plenty of nearby food outlets. The added bonus for members is that Wetherspoon’s vouchers are accepted here.

Adlington, Chorley, Leyland and Preston all have other pubs a short distance from the station, but you would be better to save them for a separate town trail.

There’s something about ale and trains that makes it a bit special so for a great day out, it’s back on board with a more realistic chance of actually getting home again.

S T E V E JAC K S O N

FREE HOU SE

• Free entertainment: Jukebox — Monday Pool — Monday –Thursday Quiz — Wednesday 9:30pm • Friday/Saturday night live music • Sunday — Chase the Ace 12noon–5.45pm • Beer garden • Dogs & muddy boots welcome • Carling Premier & Strongbow Dark Fruits now being served.

OPENING TIMES

Monday – Thursday from 3pm

8

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

Friday from 2pm

Saturday & Sunday from 12pm

THE

OLD VIC SUNDAY NIGHT QUIZ WITH CASH JACKPOT

Serving breakfasts, lunchtime specials and all traditional pub food. Also sandwiches, salads and delicious home made pies.

Parties catered for.

• 7 Handpumps revolving up to 25 cask ales including many local brewers each week • 50p Wetherspoons vouchers now redeemed

• New enlarged outdoor area with large screen TV

• Included in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide

• Outside area now covered and heated

• Upto 20 gins on our new gin menu

• Live music all summer

• Live train arrival and departure times shown

• Sky/BT showing all major sporting events

Fishergate, Preston Opposite Preston Railway Station 01772 828519

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

9

ALE CRY VISITS… SKIPTON

W

e normally have an evening trip to somewhere nearby each quarter, but in March we had a Saturday out for a change. Our destination was across the Yorkshire border in Skipton.

This attractive market town has loads of pubs in a relatively small area, with several recently opened micropubs (and more have opened since).

Our first destination was the BEER MONKEY BREWERY, which is situated about a mile and a half outside the town centre on an industrial estate. The premises were previously occupied by Copper Dragon and later by Greyhawk. When they micropub that isn’t micro’ and opened in 2016. It is a single storey building situated on the main canal basin, with a cosy bar area and decorated with canal and boating artefacts. There is a pleasant outdoor drinking area with tables and benches, just across from a statue of one of Yorkshire’s most famous sons – Fiery Fred Trueman.

5 real ales are served – Wishbone Tiller Pin (4.2%) is the house beer with the other 4 changing frequently. That day saw beers from Rat, Ossett and Marble as well as were well received – both before and after we had our trip round to learn about the brewing process. Food is limited to some rather excellent pizzas, and our departure was somewhat delayed while we had an extended lunch.

As our minibus had returned to Preston, we were left with a mile and a half walk into the town centre. Fortunately the weather was smiling on us and it was a very pleasant stroll along the Leeds and Liverpool canal into town.

Our first destination was the BOAT HOUSE, a relative newcomer to the town’s pub scene, which describes itself as ‘a

ceased trading in June 2017, the current owners bought the plant and set up as Beer Monkey. They operate a 30 barrel plant and brew 4 days a week. Much of the production is sold in cask form, but keg, cans and bottles are also available. The two core real ales are Blonde and Bitter Revival (which is a traditional English bitter), with both beers being 3.9% ABV. There is a new range of more modern styled beers which are named after songs by the sixties pop band – The Monkees. The beers are all relatively low gravity Pale Ales, ranging in strength: Cuddly Toy (3.6%), Steppin’ Stone (3.7%), For Pete’s Sake (3.9%) and Mary Mary (4.2%). The full range of beers was available in the recently opened bar, and

10

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

the stunning Midtown, a 4.9% Porter from Beatnikz Republic. There is a decent range of craft ales as well.

Not far away is the NARROW BOAT, a well established ale house and part of the Market Town Taverns Group. It is hidden up a narrow pedestrian only lane and can easily be missed. Originally a small shop unit with a gallery above, it was extended a few years ago into the adjacent unit. Serving a changing range of 8 real ales alongside a further 6 craft beers, there should be a wide enough range of breweries and styles to suit everyone. The day of our visit was

no exception, with real ale available from Timothy Taylor, Ilkley, Turning Point, Titanic Mobberley, Okells & Neepsend. Between us we tried all of them and declared them uniformly excellent.

Literally on the other side of the lane is Skipton’s first micropub, the BEER ENGINE. However to get to it, you have to walk round the block as the entrance is on the other side. A small, single bar with 5 real ales served from a glass fronted chiller cabinet

behind the bar, there are also several real ciders and a good selection of craft beers available. The real ale usually showcases Yorkshire breweries, and the beers available on the day of our visit were from Mallinsons, Great Heck, Roosters and Hambleton, alongside, surprisingly, Milk Street Zig Zag Stout (from Frome in Somerset).

Having visited three relatively new pubs, our final destination was the 18th Century WOOLLY SHEEP. This is a Timothy Taylor’s tied house, long and narrow with a very traditional feel. It serves the full range of Taylor’s beers plus a seasonal. The pub is long and narrow, with a small bar at the front, an L shaped bar counter and a large rear dining room as well as a courtyard.

With time running out, we headed back to the car park for our minibus. Some of us made a return visit to the Narrow Boat as the Turning Point Infinity Land (3.6%) was so good that we wanted a final taste.

There are many pubs in Skipton and we were only able to sample a handful of them. The town was busy and all the pubs were doing a good trade, which is encouraging at a time when so many pubs are struggling due to lack of custom. It’s a great town to visit, and not that far away. It is even possible to go by public transport.

The cheapest train journey is via Lancaster, takes nearly two hours and costs £18.10 return from Preston – provided you pick your trains carefully.

ADRIAN SMITH www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

11

Masons Arms Most Improved Pub of the Year 2018

· · · ·

4 rooms 2 bars 6 rotating cask ales Gin and wine bar

98 HARPERS LANE, CHORLEY PR6 0HU

· · · ·

Ciders, lagers and spirits Fresh snacks daily Open everyday Free wifi

LIVE MUSIC

12

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

· · · ·

Sky, BT & Racing Dog friendly Family friendly Monday night quiz

BREWERY NEWS Beer Brothers The brewery is now running close to capacity and there are an increasing number of outlets taking their beers in the local area. Their beers in bottled form can now be obtained in Booths and local Spar outlets. New cask ales recently available have been Stouty McStoutface (a 4.7% Irish Stout) and Summer Pale Ale (a hazy fruity offering at 5.0%). They are looking to open

Partridge Brewing

a bar in Preston in the near future and they are planning a Crowdfunding Campaign later this year – so if you fancy a share of a pub, this is where to come.

The plant is still mothballed following the closure of the Dog and Partridge near Chipping.

We have heard that it is their intention to start up again at new premises but no details are currently available.

Chain House Brewing The brewery has been out of action for several months while work has been going on to set up new brewing equipment. This is now fully installed, and the plan is that the first beers will be produced from early May. Late last year there was a collaboration beer produced with Rivington Brewery, and more recently there has been a collaboration with Avid Brewery to produce a cask beer. This latter beer, Gimbal a 4.5% pale ale, was available at Clitheroe Beer Festival in May.

Crankshaft A new beer, Foggy Gold was released in late April. A 4.0% ale, light gold in colour and with citrusy notes and a dry finish, is

Priest Town

described as a refreshing cross between a lager and a pale ale.

The ale gets it’s name from former World Superbike Champion, Carl Fogarty, who was involved in the launch at the Spread Eagle in Mellor. The beer is available initially in cask and bottle form.

Darkwave It has always been difficult to get any information out of this brewery. However, there has been no sign of their beers locally and no activity on Untapped since last August, so they may have ceased brewing.

If anybody out there knows anything, please let us know.

Masons Arms

S T E WA RT G R I E V E D E S I G N LT D GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR PRINT

The smallest brewery in the branch area has not been brewing recently. Owner Nick Reid has been busy with the refurbishment of 2 flats above the pub and has not had time for brewing. The only beer so far brewed, Masons Pale Ale, has proved so popular that it sells out almost immediately and Nick has confessed that the plant isn’t really big enough.

He is considering a larger kit, removing it from the lounge and installing it in a store room in the yard, but developments are not expected in the near future due to other commitments.

They are still producing bottled beers on a regular basis.

Their original line up of 6 beers has recently been supplemented with 2 brand new ones – Strike 1842, a red IPA at 5.6% and Brockhelles, a 4.8% lager.

Rivington Owner/brewer Ben Stubbs is now working full time on the brewery. A number of collaborations have been done recently and the beers are becoming more widely available in certain pubs across the branch. The Plug & Taps in Preston normally has one on – either cask or craft. They are looking to expand the brewery with new premises and larger plant, but this is all dependent on funding and we hope to have more news for next issue.

The successful Tap Beneath the Trees events are being run again this year – with forthcoming dates of 15/16 June and 24/25 August. They intend to run one in July – hopefully to coincide with Manchester Beer Week – with the date to be confirmed. Check their Twitter feed for details.

ADRIAN S M I T H – with thanks for the contributions of the brewery liaison officers (BLO)

BREWERS If you read this and you think we have missed something, please let us know.

It’s virtually a free advert!

With more than 15 years experience I offer friendly graphic design services with a keen eye for detail. Designs ranging from flyers, brochures, catalogues, and books are all assured the same commitment and creativity, guaranteeing projects exceed expectations.

w w w.stewar tgrieve.co.uk stew@stewar tgrieve.co.uk 07761 335 847

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

13

CAMRA CENTRAL LANCS BRANCH AND ...

CRICKET Clubs

T

he cricket season is now underway. What better than to spend a few hours watching cricket while lazing in the sun and sampling the real ales on sale at the clubhouse bar?

During the summer of 2018 I took it upon myself to visit as many local cricket clubs as I could to find out what they had to offer for the real ale drinker.

The CAMRA Central Lancashire branch covers Chorley, Preston, and South Ribble, plus a portion of Ribble Valley, and for this area it is surprising just how many cricket clubs there are. The highest ranked clubs play in the Northern League, but locally most clubs play in the Palace Shield, while some outliers play in the Bolton, Southport, and Ribblesdale leagues.

Starting at the top. Last year the best performing cricket club in the branch area was LEYLAND who play their home games at the Fox Lane Sports & Social Club. This is a club which also caters for a number of other sports, and as such there is a large clubhouse with a separate function room. The bar has a choice of three real ales, which were Marstons Fever Pitch, Morland Old Speckled Hen, and Wainwright on the day of my visit.

Just behind Leyland in the 2018 placings were CHORLEY who play at Sandringham Road, a short walk from the town centre.

When I went there you could smell the moorland fires which were then burning some distance away on Winter Hill. Chorley have twice been Abbot Ale National Club Champions (Ed: There are pictures of the winning teams in the gents at the Ale Station in Chorley!), but there were no Greene King beers on sale at the bar, with the choice being Banks’s Sunbeam or Thwaites Original.

Chorley Cricket Club is one of the many cricket clubs which is host to an annual Beer Festival, theirs taking place over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

These days the leading cricket club in the Preston area is FULWOOD & BROUGHTON, who I visited late in the season as they fought to maintain their Northern League status. A club which apparently was born out of the religious ‘Pleasant Sunday Afternoon’ movement, it has long been known as a good club for its real ale. On my visit two beers were available, Elland Chinook and Wainwright. This is another club which holds a Beer Festival, with the May 2019 event being the eighth annually to take place.

Completing a quartet of Northern League clubs were PRESTON, who play at West Cliff. Sadly 2018 was a low point in this old club’s history with them winning no league games and with them being relegated with negative points. It was perhaps no surprise that there was no real ale available.

The 2018 Palace Shield Champions were LONGRIDGE, who play out of town on Chipping Road. A most impressive clubhouse in a

14

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

nice setting, the club bar has one handpump. Unfortunately it is only in use on special occasions, and there was no real ale when I looked in. However, visit the club over the August Bank Holiday weekend and you will find there is a Beer Cider & Gin Festival.

Next placed of the local clubs in the Palace Shield were CROSTON who are based at Croston Sports Club on Westhead Road.

This is another club which caters for multiple sports, these including that ever popular Croston pastime, boules. The clubhouse is an old school building, and the beers available on the day were Dunscar Bridge Wicketkeeper (most appropriately) and Moorhouses White Witch. Yet another club with an annual Beer Festival, this takes place in April just as the cricket season is starting.

PENWORTHAM have a proud history as a cricket club, but many years ago there was a split between them and the adjoining Penwortham Sports & Social Club. Facilities at the cricket club on Leyland Road have greatly improved, and for a few years now the clubhouse bar has had a lone handpump, with the beer available on my visit being Lancaster Amber. Penwortham is also a cricket club that has benefited by hosting an annual Beer Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Staying in Penwortham, nearby VERNON CARUS is a sports club located slightly off the beaten track on Factory Lane. The factory may have closed, but the sports club continues to function and they maintain a friendly rivalry with their cricketing neighbours.

The clubhouse bar has two handpumps, but my findings have been that the availability of real ale has been a bit hit and miss, with me having two ‘no real ale’ failures during 2018. On the plus side, Vernon Carus were due to host their second annual Beer Festival over the May Bank Holiday weekend.

NEW LONGTON are based at the New Longton Sports & Social Club on Chapel Lane, also the home of New Longton Rovers FC. With no pubs in the village, it was interesting to find that of all the cricket club bars visited this was the one with the greatest choice of real ales, with two Timothy Taylors beers Landlord and Knowle Spring Blonde, Black Sheep Best Bitter, and Wainwright all

being available. For the last four years the clubhouse has been host to a very popular Beer Festival held just after the end of the cricket season.

Another club in the top Palace Shield division is ECCLESTON, who play on the outskirts of the village on Doctors Lane. A nice setting, but sadly a cricket club bar with no real ale.

However further down the Palace Shield pyramid there are clubs that do sell real ale. First there is BAC/EE PRESTON who play by the riverside at the BAC/EE Sports & Social Club on South Meadow Lane. A large club with impressive facilities, it has managed to survive despite the closure of the British Aerospace Strand Road site.

A club that has served real ale for a great many years, on the day of my visit the beer available was Bowland Hen Harrier.

Next there is WHITTINGHAM & GOOSNARGH which is located in the grounds of the former Whittingham Hospital. Whatever you do, don’t buy your beer at the club house, if you are expecting to drink it while watching the cricket. The playing field is a good half mile walk from the parent clubhouse, although there are some limited facilities on site. I have to say that this was the club bar with the most interesting beer range, with Cross Bay Halo Session EPA, Hawkshead Bitter, and Acorn Barnsley Gold all being on offer.

A popular event held in May each year is the Whittingham Beer & Sausage Festival, when over 100 beers and ciders are available.

For completeness I should mention EUXTON, who are one of the clubs playing in the Ribblesdale League. Although not selling real ale on a regular basis, they are yet another club which for several years now has been hosting an annual Beer Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Finally there is MAWDESLEY, another cricket club known to have held a Beer Festival in years gone by.

Weather wise 2018 was a good year for watching cricket, with the early Summer months in particular being the best for quite some time. During the year I was able to sample real ales at nine different cricket clubs in the CAMRA Central Lancashire branch area. Are there any that I have missed?

GORDON SMALL

M I C R O P U B

L O N G R I D G E

• 5 Rotating, Hand-Pulled Real Ales • 3 Natural Still Ciders • Bottled Beers • Wines + Spirits • Juices, Sodas + Snacks Open Hours: Monday : 4-8pm Wednesday : 4-9pm Thursday : 4-9pm Friday : 4-10pm Saturday : 2-10pm Sunday : 2-8pm

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

15

HISTORIC PRESTON PUBS

PART 6 BAC AREA

I

n the latest instalment of our look back at some of Preston’s closed pubs, we focus on the area to the south and west of St Walburge’s church and sitting between Fylde Road to the north and Marsh Lane to the south. This area was dominated by the British Aerospace factory and no doubt these pubs were frequented by many of the workforce.

Starting in the shadow of the impressive spire of St Walburge’s was the MAUDLAND, on the corner of Pedder Street and Ashton Street.

Originally this pub would have brewed its own beer as a licence application dated 1873 details the accommodation at the pub and includes a brewhouse. By the time our picture was taken, it had been acquired by Matthew Brown. It was a fairly basic 4-roomed local and branch meetings used to be held in a small back room. Certainly it had a reputation for decent ale, as it featured in 9 Good Beer Guides in the late 1970s and early 1980s. In 1985 it won the George Lee Memorial Trophy.

The pub closed in 2002 and is now a private dwelling.

A short walk across the railway bridge and into Brieryfield Road brings us to our next pub, the ELEPHANT. It stood at what is now the south end of the road at the junction with Atholl Street. First recorded as a pub in 1868, it ended up being owned by Tetley. It was a keg only pub for many years and once

16

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

the streets of terraced houses nearby had been demolished its’ days were numbered. It closed in 1985 and after a period of standing empty, it was converted into a private dwelling and sits surrounded by industrial premises.

Running parallel to Brieryfield Street is Croft Street and it is here we find the site of our next pub, the FOX & DUCK. Opening in 1849, it was owned and run by one John Newton.

The pub was sold at auction in 1859 as part of a property portfolio that also included the General Codrington on New Hall Lane and the Prince

Arthur on Moor Lane. The pub was sold on again in 1885 along with others in Preston, Kirkham, Croston, Penwortham, Walton-le-Dale and Eccleston and eventually ended up being owned by Matthew Brown.

Although for many years it had been a keg only establishment, real ale in the shape of Theakstons’ Best Bitter was introduced towards the end of its’ existence after a transfer of ownership to Cafe Inns. It closed in 1994, becoming a ‘fun pub’ called the Trap Door. It was situated next door to the Croft Street Brewery, the distinctive buildings of which are still

standing and occupied by Chris Miller Haulage. The pub has now been demolished and a modern industrial unit built on the site.

Before the building of the Ringway/A59 dual carriageway, Marsh Lane was an important route out of the city to the west. Now only parts of it remain, but these include the junction with Hunts Lane, where the OAK TREE was situated. Opening in 1841, it was owned by Duttons (later Whitbread) and closed in 1991. It appears at one time to have been known as the Old Oak Tree and hadn’t sold real ale for many years when it closed. It is still standing and mostly unchanged externally and is used as offices for Tom Parker Ltd. Head west to the very end of Marsh Lane and we arrive at our next lost pub, the NEPTUNE. Set right on the junction with Strand Road, this was a modern Boddingtons pub in rather brutal architectural style. There has been a pub here since 1865 with one, possibly two previous Neptune Hotel buildings on the same site. A picture of one of the earlier buildings on the Preston Inns & Taverns Blog shows a once impressive structure with both bays heavily supported, and looking a likely candidate for imminent demolition.

The pub operated more or less as a British Aerospace canteen.

Workers had a fixed and fairly brief lunch break and 10-15 minutes before the lunch break was due to start, the landlord and bar staff of the Neptune started pulling pints of Boddingtons Bitter and lining them up on the bar, so that workers would not waste any drinking time getting served. On the south side of

the same junction there was another pub, the New Quay Inn. This William Younger’s house was demolished in the 1970s as part of the road widening scheme. The new road layout left the Neptune somewhat isolated and it closed in 1992.

However a 1992 branch produced guide shows it as still serving real ale and doing a steady lunchtime trade. The building still remains, in the shadow of the A59 flyover and is used as offices. I have driven past this many times without realising that it had been a pub, but closer inspection reveals a small sign saying Neptune House.

Our final pub in this section is up Strand Road and Water Lane to the junction with Fylde Road. Here stood another Boddingtons pub, known in later years as the FYLDE TAVERN. There had been a pub on this site since at least the 1860s.

Originally named the Rawsthorne’s Arms, the original building had been demolished and the name

changed to the Steamer Hotel by the time of my only visit to it in the late 1970s. Apparently it was known by the locals as ‘The Yacht Club’, in a sarcastic way as it was a pretty basic working man’s pub. Subsequently the name changed once again to the Fylde Tavern. It had a small public bar to the left and a large lounge which featured live music and karaoke at weekends. In 1992, it gained publicity in the local press for selling the cheapest beer in Preston (Boddingtons Old Shilling @ 89p a pint). The pub managed a single entry in the Good Beer Guide in 2002, but by 2004 a local guide shows it as no longer selling real ale, with closure being in 2011.

ADRIAN SMITH

All the excellent photographs used to illustrate this series of articles come from the Jim Holderness collection, and we gratefully acknowledge this and being able to use them. In part 7 we will be looking at the Fishergate Hill area.

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

17

LONGRIDGE LIBATIONS

A

n update from Longridge which continues to improve as a real ale destination. Longridge lies 8 miles to the North-East of Preston and is extremely well served by the Number 1 bus from Preston Bus Station. This service runs between Preston and Longridge every 10 minutes on weekdays and Saturdays and every 30 minutes in the evenings and on Sundays. Even better, the service runs late into the night on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Longridge is a great day or night out. If you haven’t been for a while, please go soon and see for yourself.

Let’s start at the top of Berry Lane where our Pub of the Season for Winter 2018, The DOG INN has seen a few changes. Dan Prince, known to us previously from the Red Lion at Wheelton and Emporium at Chorley has taken over as general manager.

As a result, we are hoping to see a more interesting range (and possibly number) of beers. This beautifully refurbished, historic inn currently has 5 hand pumps providing a range of changing beers from smaller breweries across the country.

Heading down Berry Lane, the DURHAM OX is the first port of call on the left.

Licensee Irene runs a traditional pub which is a great place to go for a warm welcome, conversation or to watch live sport. At least two quality cask beers are available and if you’re hungry, try a pickled egg.

Continuing down Berry Lane to LONGRIDGE CONSERVATIVE CLUB where manager, Michelle Turner continues to offer great real ale from four hand pumps, one of which is dedicated to Wainwright, but have recently been offering ales from breweries such as J W Lees and Bowland beers. Non members are welcome.

Next on Berry Lane is the TOWNELEY ARMS. The pub continues to be popular and is a welcoming, friendly place for a drink and some great food. Real ale is available and local breweries Lancaster and Moorhouses feature regularly. Live music and other events are a regular occurrence.

Across the road, the TAP AND VENT continues to go from strength to strength.

18

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

This true freehouse, serves 4 rotating cask ales and a real cider alongside craft beers and lagers from all around the world. It was the first micropub to open in Longridge and has proved so popular that, in December 2017 owners Nickie and Duncan opened their second micro, TAP & T’ALES in Goosnargh, opposite the Stag’s Head, which is now enjoying similar success.

Lower down but still on Berry Lane BILLY’S WINE BAR can be found close to Booths. More of a wine bar than a pub, although there are 2 hand pumps which serve decent real ale, typically from local breweries such as Bowland and Lancaster.

Towards the bottom of Berry Lane,

Applejacks Greengrocers has become Longridge’s latest micro-pub, APPLEJACKS MICROBAR. Opened in February 2019, the new bar is owned and run by Tom and Gill Jackson, who previously owned and ran the Greengrocers for over 20 years. Open during the day for coffee and cake, beer is available from 12 noon. There are 3 handpumps with beers ever-changing from smaller independent breweries although one hand pump normally offers their own Applejacks Ale brewed by Lancaster Brewery. A warm and friendly welcome awaits at this great family run bar. A discount of 50p per pint of cask ale is offered to CAMRA members on production of a valid CAMRA card.

At the bottom of Berry Lane, the FORREST ARMS on Derby Road, has had a refurb which is said to have given it a “welcome facelift” but is still in keeping with the most prominent feature, it’s circular bar.

Up to 3 real ales are available often from

local breweries such as Bank Top. The pub remains a popular place to watch live sports.

Heading out towards Chipping, the ALSTON ARMS lies on the left hand side on Inglewhite Road. This is a top quality, friendly pub serving traditional country pub food alongside some great real ale from the 4 hand pumps on the bar. Outside, there is a timber frame barn with sliding doors which open onto a fabulous beer garden. A perfect place to chill out on a warm, sunny day.

Back into Longridge, on Derby Road, HOPPY DAYS is a haven for real ale fans. Opened in October 2016 by Peace Townsend, this micropub has 5 hand pulls, all rotating with a dark beer always available plus 3 real ciders with 2 rotating.

Meet the Brewer events, Tap Takeovers and live music feature occasionally and quizzes and Spanish lessons are held regularly.

Look out for “Hoppy Days on Tour” events, such as brewery trips which are now very popular so places fill up fast. (like and follow Hoppy Days Micropub Facebook page for event information). The quality of the ale in here is superb and you will find a very friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Hoppy Days was our Pub of the Season for Autumn 2017 and in December 2017 was voted the winner of our premier award, the George Lee Memorial Trophy.

A few short steps away, also on Derby Road, is the BULL AND ROYAL. A traditional pub with a friendly welcome.

The Bull is popular with its regulars and the beer is of good quality. This is a Thwaites tied house and typically available beers are Thwaites Original, Lancaster Bomber, and Wainwright.

On Preston Road, the OLD OAK is another traditional community local and I am sad to say that on my last couple of visits to Longridge, it has been closed. The pub has supported pool and darts teams, hosted quiz and games nights, parties and other events including live music. Hopefully, this will be temporary rather than permanent.

The CORPORATION ARMS on Lower Road (at Hothersall) continues to provide excellent food and quality real ale. 4 hand pumps offer ales from local breweries such as Bowland and Moorhouses, as well as others from further afield given the pub’s free of tie status. The quality of the ale, like the food, is consistently good. The pub also host an annual beer festival, typically in May. Finally, not in Longridge but in nearby Grimsargh, the PLOUGH is much improved.

Licensee Chris is doing a great job and the pub is once again at the heart of the community. The choice and quality of real ale has improved significantly and beers from Blackedge Brewery in Horwich have been seen recently. Well worth a visit if you haven’t been in for a while.

DAV E B E L L

CAMRA GOOD BEER GUIDE 2019

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

19

RILEY’S RAMBLES: Ambleside

W

ith the fine weather of summer upon us, our thoughts often turn to places further afield. The Lake District is not far away and many of us visit every year. A favourite base for a visit is Ambleside, which is fairly central for all amenities. There is also a good range of real ale pubs selling a wide range of excellent beers and most also serve food.

Starting from the Bus Interchange on Kelsick Road in Ambleside, go up to Lake Road and turning left you will see the LILY BAR on the other side of the road. A

modern bar with wooden furnishings, it is deservedly popular with students and visitors alike, with live music and other attractions often taking place. Four real ales from Cumbrian breweries feature, which on our visit were Bowness Swallow Gold (3.9%), Cumbrian Legendary Ales Langdale (4%) and Loweswater Gold (4.3%) and Barngates Tag Lag (4.4%). It is open from noon–11pm (12pm Fri, Sat).

Going towards the centre, you next encounter CHURCHILL’S, with its numerous TV screens featuring all the major sporting events. Regular live music makes this a popular venue for the younger set.

Four real ales available, which this time were Jennings Cumberland (4%), Marstons Wainwrights (4.1%), and two from Keswick Brewery, Gold (3.6%) and Bitter (3.7%).

Opening times are 10am–Midnight.

Continuing along this road, you come to the ROYAL OAK, which has been part of Ambleside’s heritage since the 1600’s. A one time Scottish & Newcastle pub, it now belongs to Greene King. Always popular, it

20

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

is even busier nowadays with both visitors and regulars; even the seating outside is often full. A real fire is welcome on cold nights. You will find the to be expected Greene King IPA and Abbot Ale, but besides this there are also five other real ales which lately have all come from Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery, but this can change.

On my last visit, the five beers were their Crafty Mild (3.6%), Single Track (4%), Ambler (4.1%), Radical (4.2%) and Monumental (4.5%). There is a 10% discount for CAMRA members and it is open from midday till 11pm (11.30 Fri/Sat).

Next up, on the other side of the road, is the WHITE LION. Once renowned for selling Draught Bass, it is now an Ember Inn, and is a busy town centre pub with a large outside seating area looking out onto the main street, which makes it popular with both visitors and locals. Inside there is a large bar area with small dining areas off, and again a real fire. Live sports are shown and there is a weekly quiz. Five real ales are on sale with the permanent ones beings Ember Pale Ale, Jennings Cumberland plus Wainwrights, and two changing guests.

On this occasion they were Moles Mole Catcher (5%) and Black Sheep Chocolate and Orange Stout (5.5%). Opening times are 11–11 all days except Sunday when it is noon–10.30pm.

Continuing uphill is the QUEENS HOTEL, a large, comfortable hotel in the centre of town. It dates from the 18th Century, with a spacious bar and dining area plus a separate restaurant. Sensitive refurbishments have

enhanced the welcoming experience while retaining its historic pedigree. A total of 6 regular and changing guest ales are generally on sale. Regulars include Coniston Bluebird (3.6%) and Cumbrian Legendary Ales Loweswater Gold. The other beers on the bar on our visit were Hawkshead Windermere Pale (3.5%), Jennings Cumberland and Sneck Lifter plus Wainwright. This pub opens at 10am until 11.45pm all days.

At the top of the hill you will find the famous SALUTATION HOTEL. Back in the day, its Stables Bar was a magnet for all sorts of quite noisy characters, especially at Bank Holidays. I can remember as a teenager being in this crowded bar drinking Newcastle Brown Ale straight from the bottle, with the landlord keeping order by blowing a shrill whistle. How things have changed. The Stables bar is long gone and now the Salutation is a very comfortable and plush and maybe a bit posh hotel. The casual drinker is however made very welcome and the calm and quiet bar area is very soothing after some of the excitement elsewhere.

One real ale is on sale and that was Gold Wing (4%) which comes from Strands microbrewery in Nether Wasdale. It was very good. Besides bar meals there is a separate a la carte dining room. The Salutation is open from 11am–11pm except Sunday when it is noon–10.30pm.

Going downhill from here on Rydal Rd, bear right

along North Rd. to find the first of two Robinson’s pubs in Ambleside, the UNICORN. Both this pub and the next were once Hartley’s pubs and were a magnet for those who valued their tasty ales. The Ulverston Brewery was taken over in 1982 and closed in 1991 and the pubs now sell the Stockport produced products. At the Unicorn these were Dizzy Blonde, Cumbria Way, Unicorn, Trooper and Double Hop. The Unicorn is the oldest pub in Ambleside and has been run by the

same family for over twenty two years. There is a cosy atmosphere and a real fire. It holds regular live music three times a week. The pub opens at noon, closing between 3pm and 6pm before continuing until midnight all days except Saturday when it is open throughout.

Continue up North Rd and you will come to the second Robinson’s pub, the grade II listed GOLDEN RULE. It is one of the oldest

hostelries in Ambleside, dating from around 1683 and has retained its multi-roomed features including a snug to the right. There is a real fire, bench seating and photos on the walls, giving it a cosy, warm and traditional feeling. There is no background music, big screen TVs and no meals, so the Golden Rule is the place to go to relax, have a drink and chat with friends (or strangers), for it is popular with regulars and visitors alike. There is also a beer garden where you can sit in the sun on those days when it is out. Seven beers from the Robinson stable are generally on the bar, with Cumbria Way, Dizzy Blonde, Double Hop and Wizard as permanent beers plus up to 3 changing, made up of seasonal and specials. When I went in there was one celebrating the Tour of Britain (4.2%) and one called Blonde: James Blonde at 3.6%. The pub is open 11am through till midnight all days.

Our last pub is the AMBLESIDE TAVERN, a Thwaites house on Compston Rd. This can be reached by going downhill from the Rule to the main road, turning left and Compston Rd is on the right. A popular local’s pub, it was packed on my visit with people

Cann Bridge Ale House A new micropub in Higher Walton 4 handpulls serving an ever rotating selection of the finest cask ales 2 draught ciders plus house Bavarian Lager

PAU L R I L E Y

We are a microbrewery based in Leyland creating traditional ales inspired by Leyland and its engineering heritage.

Available to the trade in bottle and cask Available to customers direct from the brewery shop Bespoke beers available for special events and corporate gifts

Winners of George Lee Memorial Trophy 2019 Call or email to order or for our current cask and bottle availability.

07827 289200 enquiries@crankshaftbrewery.co.uk

20+ gins

BREWERY TAP NOW OPEN

Wines and Spirits

12-9 Fri & Sat

17E/17F Boxer Place, Leyland. PR26 7QL

Dog friendly

CRANKSHAFT BREWERY

47 Cann Bridge Street, Higher Walton PR5 4DJ Cann Bridge Ale House

watching the England football match on the television. Other attractions are regular live music at weekends, and the downstairs bar operating as a disco from 9.30pm–1.30am on Wed, Fri and Sat. The pub has four regular Thwaites (or Marston’s) beers and two changing guest beers, one of which was Young’s Special on my visit. The other beers were Nutty Black, which was very good, Wainwright, Bomber and a seasonal called Autumnus at 3.8%. Opening at 11am (12 Sun) it is open till 10.30 Mon, Tue, Thur, Midnight Wed, Fri, Sat, and 11 Sun. A lot of the above pubs have some sort of accommodation available, and there are of course many guest houses, this making Ambleside an ideal base for exploring the area. By public transport, you could get the train from Preston to Windermere (approx 1 hour) and then there is a regular bus service (the 555) from the station to the centre of Ambleside, which takes about a quarter of an hour. Preston to the Lakes in an hour and a quarter! You could make a day of it.

CannBridgeAleHs

Beer made and bottled in small batches in Leyland Crankshaft Brewery

Leyland, Lancashire PR26 7QL | www.crankshaftbrewery.co.uk

@crankshaftbrew

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

21

THE PRICE OF YOUR PINT

REVISITED

T

owards the end of 2017, we ran a series of articles in Ale Cry that looked at beer pricing. These ended with the statement that ‘if the customer is not willing to pay a sufficient price for real ale, then pubs will stop selling it and brewers will stop brewing it’. Perhaps not tomorrow or next year, but it’s a pretty logical conclusion.

So why revisit the topic two years on?

A chance conversation with Phill Leyland of Beer Brothers started this one off. He said that the consumers’ unwillingness to pay a fair price was undermining brewers ability to produce quality real ales. His view was that they would either be forced to close, quit cask ale altogether or ‘dumb down’ the product so they could make money on it. Given the number of small breweries out there, this seemed a rather pessimistic prediction, so I thought it worth talking to a few other people about this.

I started by talking to Ben Stubbs who is the owner and brewer at Rivington Brewery at Angelzarke. Prior to becoming a brewer he worked in the food industry, and he explained to me his experiences with ‘cost engineering’. This is where the manufacturer analyses each ingredient, with the aim of finding a cheaper alternative. The aim of course is to give a higher profit margin. You can imagine how continued ‘minor’ changes over a period of time will lead to a ‘dumbed down’ version of the product – perhaps tasting very little like the original. Which probably explains why older drinkers are often heard saying that XYZ beer tastes nothing like it used to. We’re not imagining it or losing our marbles!

Ben said that his beers were towards the more expensive end of the market in terms of price to the pub. Producing beers with a high ABV and with distinctive hop flavour costs more than a bland mass market beer, and the brewer needs to be able to sell them at a higher price to be able to continue brewing such beers. There has been a huge growth in true free trade outlets in recent years; mainly due to the growth in micropubs. For the smaller breweries without distribution deals with pubcos, access to these sort of pubs is vital.

However it is concerning that so many of them are price sensitive and baulk at buying ‘premium products’ at a correspondingly higher price.

Next, Rachel Birch, who runs the Beer School in Westhoughton. Not in our area, but a cracking little micropub with 4 real ales and a good selection of craft beers.

It is also the most expensive pub in the

22

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

town! Rachel says that this was quite deliberate and emphasised that they buy beer on quality not on price. She would rather pay more for a quality product than serve something indifferent at a lower price. This has to be passed on to the customer, which means higher prices at the bar. It seems that if you get the offering right, then people are willing to pay, and their trade hasn’t suffered because of their strategy.

It’s great to hear from licensees who view things this way – but they are, sadly, not in the majority. In the Chorley area, we have a good number of micropubs and genuine free trade outlets, but there is pretty much a price ceiling of £3 a pint. There is a certain predictability to the beers available; pleasant, perfectly drinkable but often unexciting, with the same beers appearing time and again.

There is only one outlet now trying to push through this barrier; with prices up to about £3.50 a pint for the more interesting ales. It’s good to see that custom doesn’t appear to be suffering as a result. Discerning drinkers will pay!

It is perhaps noticeable that the pubs that tend to have the most interesting real ale selections tend to be those that also sell craft beers. They do not seem to have a problem selling real ale at a price above the perceived ceiling. Maybe seeing craft on sale at £4.50+ a pint makes £3.70 or so for real ale seem like a bargain. In our area, the majority of these pubs are in Preston with a scattering of micropubs elsewhere who are being truly imaginative about what they sell.

If you go on social media, there is plenty being said about beer prices. The general view is that pub prices are way too expensive, but compared to what?

Supermarkets? The only place you and I can drink draught real ale is in the pub – and we have to pay for all the pub overheads on top of the brewers price – so of course it costs more. Well lets look at costs in this country compared with abroad. Through my wife’s business contacts, I’ve managed to obtain some up to date costings from various other countries: • USA, Boston/Philadelphia anywhere from £6.50–£8 a pint for a decent craft beer • France, Paris from £6–£7 a pint: happy hour prices away from the centre • Germany, Frankfurt around £3.50–£4 • UAE, Abu Dhabi from £6–£7

I have had holidays in Ireland, Italy and Switzerland in recent years, and in each of them, the price of a beer is significantly higher than we pay. In most of the cases above we are talking about mass produced national products, not craft or micro brewery beers, so we are clearly getting a pretty good deal.

Why do we have this attitude to pricing?

There is a major player out there who has had a significant impact on beer pricing in this country. It is 40 years since Wetherspoons opened their first pub and the estate has grown to around 900.

The whole JDW empire has been grown on price or ‘value for money’ if you like.

Real ale on sale at £2.09 a pint is frankly ridiculous. Any pub in a town or city with a Wetherspoons outlet is going to face the same problems. JDW set the baseline for beer pricing, and in doing so restrict just how much can be charged by other pubs. Consequently anyone who tries to sell at more than £2.50 a pint is accused of overcharging or profiteering!

To make matters worse, CAMRA, the champion of quality real ale, pubs and independent breweries is actually encouraging it’s members to visit Wetherspoons. Each member gets £20 worth of vouchers to spend on real ale – knocking the cost of a pint down to £1.59!

We are actively encouraging people to abandon the traditional pubs who have no way of competing with these prices and then wring our hands when these same pubs close down and get turned into something else. In addition, we have the CAMRA Real Ale Discount Scheme – where pubs can give a discount off real ale to CAMRA members. Why? We are supposed to be a campaigning organisation. We are supposed to be supporting pubs, not getting benefits from them because we are CAMRA members. We do publicise this scheme and the pubs that offer discounts in this magazine, but I wonder whether we should.

Agreed, nobody wants to pay more than they have to. Also agreed is that going out for a drink is always going to be more expensive than doing so at home. If I’m going to the pub, I’d rather have three pints of spectacular beer at £4 a pint than four pints of average beer at £3 a shot.

The expenditure is the same, but one experience is so much better than the other. I started this article by quoting one of our local brewers ‘fears for the future’ and I’m afraid that unless more real ale drinkers start looking at quality rather than price, then those fears may well come to pass.

ADRIAN SMITH

Hoppers 2019 Beer Festival Friday 5th July to Sunday 7th July

45 CASK BEERS

Gin & Prosecco Marquee Cider & Craft Beer Bar Food served all weekend Separate Music & Bar Areas

Tickets from Skiddle.com or on the door CAMRA discount available

Preston Grasshoppers, Lightfoot Green Lane, PR4 0AP

THE POTTERS ARMS BROOK STREET, CHORLEY

Three Bs Doff Cocker Black Sheep Best Bitter + Guest ales from local breweries

Don’t miss Tuesday All cask ales £1.99 A real pub with darts, dominoes, pool, and a real fire

Stephen and Denise have been glad to welcome good beer lovers for over 25 years at the POTTERS.

FREE

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

23

Preston Parade

F

irst of all, we have a new outlet for real ale in the city. It is the ‘PRESTON ROCK N BOWL’, a bowling alley and leisure centre on Greenbank Street. Unlike the bowling alley inside the Guild Hall in the city centre, which does not cater for real ale drinkers, the Rock n Bowl has two handpumps dispensing real ale, with the aim to eventually have four real ales on sale. They are free of tie and can source their beer from wherever they choose.

When I visited there was a beer from Cross Bay and one from the Poynton brewery in Cheshire. Entry is free and you do not

have to bowl (for which you pay, of course).

The casual drinker is welcome and besides bowling, there is pool and table tennis and other games, and children are catered for.

For those wanting to bowl, it is a 24 lane bowling alley and it is open from 10am until midnight. On Saturday nights there is live music featuring rock groups (hence the name) and food is served 10am -11pm.

There are two function rooms and there are plans for a nail and hair salon. There is a large car park to the front. You can find it at 50 Greenbank St. between Ripon St and Eldon St, off Brook St. You just get used to the name of a bar and it changes its name, especially in the case of what was lately known as PR1.

In the last issue we told you of how The Beer Brothers Brewery had taken over the lease of the Mad Hatter and renamed it as

24

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

PR1. They have now decided to pull out of the bar after failing to agree the future terms of the lease with the owners of the building, Strettles Leisure. After rumours that it would be called Sam’s Bar after the landlady, she has confirmed that it will henceforth be known as the SPEAKEASY. Whereas before it had four Beer Brothers beers always on sale, Sam has decided that, being free of tie, the bar will revert to having an ever changing range of cask ales from all over the country. Thus seven varying cask ales will now be available for our delight. Presently, the opening times are 3pm – midnight Mon-Thurs, noon- 12 Fri/Sat, and 12-11 Sun, but Sam says that eventually they will hopefully be serving food again and they will open at noon all days. Live music will continue to feature including bands and open mic nights plus the ever popular Silver Bell Jazz Band.

As promised in the last issue, BAKER STREET, the new modern pub on Avenham St. is now open and I am glad to tell you that it is serving four cask ales. When it first opened, these were all Robinson’s brewed beers, as they had helped with the installation of the cask lines at the bar.

This will not always be the case and other brewers can be forecast. Recently beers from Lancaster Brewery have appeared and others will come, but for the immediate future, Robinsons Dizzy Blonde will be a

Court is under new management and on a recent visit was selling Marston’s EPA a 3.6% beer at £2.60 a pint, plus Jennings Cockerhoop (4.6%).

A pub I always think is worth a look in is YATES, opposite the Miller Arcade. It often has some interesting real ales on (it has 3 handpumps) and you get a discount on production of your CAMRA membership card. Very lively at weekends, it is quieter at lunchtimes and midweek.

A pub that was once the go to place for real ale enthusiasts, NEW BRITANNIA on Heatley St. has recently been selling very unusual real ales from far flung corners of the country. Under the management of Rachel and John since December, a more adventurous attitude has come to the fore. Whereas previously Farmers Blonde was the beer that seemed to be permanently on the bar, beers of other shades, such as dark and golden, are featured on the two handpumps. When I recently went in, Copper Hop, a 4.2% beer from the Long Man Brewery of East Sussex was on sale. Talking to them, I was told they would try to get any beer their customers could recommend, and I was shown a pile of pumpclips of unusual beers that had recently been on sale.

They also said they hoped to get a third handpump in eventually. All cask beers are priced at £2.50 a pint. Their attitude

permanent fixture on the bar. Described as ‘Bohemian’ the bar is a modern, trendy pub spread over three levels with an emphasis on live music plus open mic nights and quiz nights also featuring. Quieter during the day, food will eventually be available. There is an outside terrace and smoking area plus sports TV. Nearby, the WELLINGTON on Glover’s

is that they would rather sell all the beer at this price than charge more and be left with beer that they could not sell. A very enlightened view, worthy of our support.

They open at 9am–11pm Mon–Thur, until midnight Fri/Sat, and 10am–12pm Sun. With the closure of NEW WELCOME, off Aqueduct St. there is now only one Thwaites house left in Preston City centre.

This is the SUN on Friargate. When you consider how many pubs they once had in Preston (mostly acquired when they took over Preston Breweries Ltd of Chester Rd.), it is a sad reflection of modern trends.

What happened to make the Lamb and Packet, near the University, unviable?

Pub Of The Year 2019 – The Moorbrook

T What about the George on Church Street?

Was that just a victim of the neglect of that end of town? There are many other examples. Therefore, if we do not want to see the Thwaites name disappear entirely from Preston, we should also support The Sun on Friargate, where you can still find beers brewed by Thwaites, at their new brewery plant at Mellor Brook. This usually consists of TBC Thwaites Best Cask (3.8%) and a seasonal beer which on my last visit was Blondie, a 3.6% blonde beer. They also sell the Marstons brewed Wainwright.

Finally, one has to wonder what is going to happen at the DOG & PARTRIDGE on Friargate. Ronnie Fitzpatrick, the former landlord from when it was a good pub, informed us that he had seen a white van parked outside being loaded up with equipment from the cellar. What that means for its future as a pub we can only guess, but the longer it is shut, the more one fears for the outcome.

PAU L R I L E Y

o us it seems like old news, but at the start of March we were delighted to announce that the MOORBROOK on North Road in Preston had been voted as the Pub of the Year for Central Lancashire. In a members poll, it came out a clear winner in front of the other nominations, with two Chorley pubs, MALT’N’HOPS second and ALE STATION third. The presentation of the shield and certificate was held in late April and was well attended by members and regulars alike. Our social coincided with a Tap Takeover by the Torrside Brewery (from New Mills, Derbyshire). A brewery not often found in these parts, they had 7 cask ales and a further 4 craft on sale, alongside a selection from other breweries.

The Moorbrook was of course where our branch started in 1973 and the then licensee George Lee was Branch Treasurer. After years of decline it nearly closed as a pub and it is 5 years since it was bought by the current owners. Combining a traditional layout and feel with a modern attitude to the beers they sell, the pub has been turned into a thriving example of what a traditional pub can be with the right people and the right attitude.

Congratulations to Richard Fisher-Godwin and his team for all their hard work. At a time when so many ‘out of town’ pubs are struggling and closing, it is great to see one bucking the trend. It is indeed a sobering thought that around 1900 there were 26 pubs on North Road – the Moorbrook is the only one left!

The pub now goes forward as our nomination for the Lancashire Pub of the Year competition, where it will go up against entries from all the other Lancashire branches.

www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

25

CHORLEY CHATTER

S

tarting in Chorley itself, the PRINCE OF WALES on Cowling Brow has seen a change of licensee.

Long term regular on the public side of the bar, Frank Clarke and his partner Carol have taken over. There are no significant changes planned here beyond a bit of smartening up. In an area where pubs have struggled to serve real ale, the Prince has always stood alone, serving 8 beers from the ever expanding Marston’s stable. At this early stage, the four regular

beers will be Banks’s Sunbeam, Jennings Cumberland, Wainwright and Youngs’ Bitter and the 10% discount for CAMRA members will continue to be offered. Frank is a real ale drinker and is passionate about the quality of the beer he will be serving, so it looks like this traditional locals pub is in good hands.

Another local that has seen a change is the MITRE on Weldbank Lane. It is many years since this pub sold any real ale, so it

was perhaps a bit of a surprise when we heard that it had been reintroduced. There is one handpump serving changing beers from Lancaster brewery, with a focus on the monthly specials. Early reports are that it is selling well, so if you are that side of town, why not pop in to try some.

In the town centre, there has been further changes at what used to be the Toastie Tavern. There is a new licensee Tony Glover and the pub has been renamed the CUCKOO’S NEST. This is the third name the pub has carried in it’s short lifetime, and while the new signs were going up, we managed to get a picture of the pub showing signage from all three incarnations. Initial indications here are

26

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

promising with some interesting beers appearing on the bar and we wish Tony well with his new venture.

Not recent news, but something we completely missed in the Autumn issue, is that SAMS BAR now has real ale on. There are three handpumps, normally serving either Sharp’s Atlantic or Doom Bar, plus 2 changing guest beers. There have been some interesting ales on recently so a welcome

addition to the scene.

It’s not all good news on the pub front in Chorley with the closure of two outlets that have not been serving real ale. No sooner had Speakeasy been renamed WARP & WEFT than it closed. The signs have disappeared and although the bar fittings still remain, it appears as if this one has run it’s course. On Bolton Street, the EAGLE is also closed and boarded up. The pub is available Freehold for £200,000, so perhaps someone will take it on. It would be a particular shame to see this one disappear – it has a traditional internal layout and would make a great real ale pub in the right hands.

In the last issue of Ale Cry, we mentioned the opening of two micropubs in Adlington.

Both of these have had problems with the local authority over planning permission for change of use – both having opened without it. JR’S ALE HOUSE was finally granted retrospective permission and is now open every day from noon until 10pm.

A smart bar on three levels, there are four changing beers on offer, and on a recent visit thes included beers from Tiny Rebel, Beartown and Northern Monkey. There was also a house beer badged as JR’s Golden Ale,

although we have no idea of it’s origins.

Unfortunately, permission was not granted for the PRIDE OF AGGI and although an appeal has been lodged, the pub is temporarily closed. Let’s hope the council see sense, and realise that a micropub is a completely different animal to a conventional pub, and usually without the associated problems. In this case it is particularly relevant, given the Elephant & Castle pub is almost directly opposite.

News has also reached us of plans for another new micropub, this time in Coppull. PRIDE OF COPPULL will be in Spendmore Lane, about 100 yards west of the SPRINGFIELD, and on the same side of the road. This is owned by the same people who have the Pride of Aggi, and should be open by the time you read this.

Certainly a micropub in Coppull will be a welcome addition to the drinking scene.

In Croston, the GRAPES has reopened, with new licensee David Rimmer in charge.

Historically this has been a food driven outlet and that is still a major part of the offering. There are four handpumps and the beers on offer currently are White Witch and Pride of Pendle from Moorhouses, Ruddles Best Bitter and Jennings Cumberland.

These are selling well and attempts to try something different have met with resistance from the regulars, so for now it is a fixed selection. The pub is due a repaint and new signs as well as some minor internal improvements during the summer, but will remain open.

ADRIAN SMITH

ST T E R E SA’S PENWORTHAM

BT SPORTS FREE WI FI POOL / SNOOKER LARGE FUNCTION ROOM LAGERS

REAL ALE CIDERS BIG SCREEN TV SKY SPORTS OPEN

SPIRITS WINE GIN BAR SOFT DRINKS

MON–THUR 7–11 • FRI 7–12 • SAT 12–12 • SUN 12–8

34 QUEENSWAY PENWORTHAM PRESTON PR1 0DS TEL 01772 743523

St Teresa’s Parish Centre, Penwortham @TeresaCentre @stteresasparish

The Beer Room at

Beers - Craft Ales - Real Ales Lagers - Ciders Local - UK - Continental

Monday to Thursday - 10:30 to 17:00 Friday - 10:30 to 20:00 Saturday - 10:30 to 18:00

www.barricawines.co.uk

Beer Brothers Brewery & Bar 335 Ranglet Rd Walton Summit Centre Preston PR5 8AR Tel: 07469 220583 www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

27

TRADES HALL CLUB Bamber Bridge 3 Handpumps for real ale Other drinks at bargain prices inc. San Miguel and Warsteiner.

CAMRA members welcome.

(Discounted prices on production of valid membership card)

Membership available all year round.

154c Station Road, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancs. PR5 6TP http://www.trades-hall.co.uk

28

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

Acts on every Saturday.

Bingo every Wednesday and Saturday.

Beer Scoring What?ub, Beer Scoring and the Good Beer Guide You are probably aware of the ‘Good Beer Guide’, CAMRA’s flagship publication which lists the best pubs in the UK. But what you may not know is how those pubs are selected to appear in the Guide.

The answer is that it is largely via beer scores submitted by CAMRA members from all over the country. If you’ve ever wondered why your favourite pub isn’t in the Guide, this may well be because you, and others, haven’t entered scores rating the quality of beer there.

By beer scoring, you can contribute to the process of selection of pubs that go in the Good Beer Guide.

How do I submit my scores?

In order to submit your scores you need to login to CAMRA’s online pub guide www.whatpub.com either on a computer or by smart phone. Here you will find a list of nearly 36,000 real ale pubs from all over the UK; these are not all Good Beer Guide pubs, merely pubs that serve real ale. In order to start submitting scores via you need to:

1

Login. To do this you need your membership number and your CAMRA password.

2

You can then search for your pub by name. Be careful here as there are many pubs in the country which share the same name. My advice is to search by the pub name and the town.

The smart phone web page also gives you the option to search for real ale pubs nearby, very useful if you are in an unfamiliar town.

3

Once you have found your pub a ‘Submit Beer Scores’ box will appear on the right hand side of the screen (or on the bar underneath the pub photo if you are using a smart phone).

4

Simply fill in the date and your score then as you begin typing the brewery name should automatically appear underneath were you are typing. You do not have to enter the name of the beer you are drinking but if you wish to do so once you have entered the brewery name you should be able to click on the arrow in the Beer box and a drop down list of that brewery’s beers should appear. In some cases the beer you are drinking may be new or a one off by the Brewery so may not appear on the list, if this is the case you can simply type in the beer name.

Select the correct one click ‘submit score’ and your score will be entered into the database.

So how do I score the quality of the beer?

You don’t have to be an ‘expert’ to begin scoring your beer.

However, it is not about your personal favourite beer receiving the highest scores! You may try a beer that isn’t to your normal taste but what you need to consider is the quality of that beer, how well the pub has kept it and served it, and score it according to the general guide below. It is a simple system of a ten point range from 0 to 5, with half points being used if your opinion of the beer falls between two categories.

0 No cask ale available 1 Poor Beer is anything from barely drinkable to drinkable with considerable resentment.

2 Average Competently kept, drinkable pint but doesn’t inspire 3 4 5

in any way, not worth moving to another pub but you drink the beer without really noticing.

Good Good beer in good form. You may cancel plans to move to the next pub. You want to stay for another pint and may seek out the beer again.

Very Good Excellent beer in excellent condition. You stay put!

Perfect Probably the best you are ever likely to find. A seasoned drinker will award this score very rarely.

ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd ddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd

It is as simple as that. An added bonus is that the site keeps a record of your scores so you can look back to see what beers you have had and how you rated them if you want. This facility is only available on the desktop version – look for the ‘View All’ sign underneath the scoring card. The results can be sorted by date, pub or town; so an ideal way of looking back on where you’ve been and what beer you’ve tried.

When I became Pubs Officer about 6 years ago, we were getting about 700 scores a year. With a fair bit of publicity this has gone up to just over 2,400, which is a significant improvement. Better still, whereas previously we did not get any scores for over half our outlets, we have had 181 pubs and clubs scored in the last 12 months out of 288 known to be serving real ale. Unfortunately while the overall trend is upward, we are still in the position that for most pubs, the scores are statistically meaningless. Less than 50 pubs had over 12 scores, so when it comes to beer guide selection, we are still having to rely on our local knowledge in some cases.

So who’s getting the highest numbers of scores and which pubs are scoring the highest? The top 3 in terms of numbers are the MALT ‘N’ HOPS (176) GUILD ALE HOUSE (167) and SHEPHERDS’ HALL ALE HOUSE (142) – and it is perhaps no surprise that when we lasted posted information on scoring 2 years ago, these 3 pubs were the top 3 then! The highest average scores (20 or more scores received) are (BOTTOM) SPINNERS in Adlington, RED LION in Wheelton and TAP & VINE @ 69 in Penwortham.

Our branch membership is about 1550, but in the last year, only 24 of our members have scored beers in our area. To each and every one of you, a big ‘thank you’ from the committee. I am assuming that the other 1500+ members do drink real ale in pubs in our area.

This being the case, it would be great if you could help us in this really simple task, by scoring and giving us feedback. Only with your help can we ensure that the pubs selected for the next Good Beer Guide are really the best in the branch.

If you’re not a CAMRA member, why not join us – see page 31 for details.

ADRIAN SMITH www.centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Ale Cry

29

Branch Diary Monday 10th June Committee Meeting at Brig ‘n’ Barrel, Bamber Bridge (7.30) Thursday 27th June Annual General Meeting at Black Horse, Preston Saturday 6th July Trip Venue TBA Monday 8th July Committee Meeting at Malt‘n’Hops, Chorley (7.30) Thursday 25th July Branch Social & Pub of the Season presentation at Yew Tree, Anglezarke Monday 12 August Committee Meeting at Speakeasy, Preston th

Thursday 29th August Branch Social at Beer Brothers, Bamber Bridge (7.30) Monday 9th September Committee Meeting at Leyland Lion, Leyland (7.30) All meetings start at 8pm unless shown.

Trips For further details and to book, contact Simon Crowe on 07852 165024 or email simonpdcrowe@gmail.com

Advertising

With a print run of 6,000 and magazines available in pubs and clubs across the area and beyond, an advert in Ale Cry is probably the best value targeted advertising around.

Advert prices Quarter page: £55 Half page: £95 Full page: £175 Back page: £195 (not currently available) For further details contact: editor@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Publication Dates

The next issue of Ale Cry will be published on 1st September 2019.

Deadline for copy and advert submission is 1st August 2019.

Trading Standards

For complaints about issues such as short measures, contact: Lancashire County Council Trading Standards County Hall, Pitt Street Preston, PR1 0LD. T: 0345 404 0506

Ale Cry online

Digital versions of this and previous Ale Crys are available at: https://issuu.com/clcamra

30

Ale Cry

ISSUE 123 SUMMER 2019

CAMRA Discount Pubs All over the country, hundreds of pubs are offering a discount to card carrying CAMRA members. These pubs deserve your support and listed below are the ones in our branch area that we believe are offering a discount.

Adelphi, Preston

10%

Ancient Oak, Cottam

20p per pint, except Mon when discount is for all customers

Anderton Arms, Fulwood

20p per pint, except Mon when discount is for all customers

Applejacks, Longridge

50p per pint

Baker Street, Preston

10%

Bamber Bridge Football Club

20p per pint

Bay Horse, Euxton

10%

Black Bull, Fulwood

20p per pint, except Mon when discount is for all customers

Black Bull, Penwortham

20p per pint

Bob Inn, Chorley

20p per pint

Broughton Inn, Broughton

20p per pint

Fleece, Penwortham

10%

Grey Friar, Preston

50p per pint using a Wetherspoon’s token

Guild (Fylde Rd), Preston

25p per pint

Lane Ends, Ashton

10%

Leyland Lion, Leyland

50p per pint using a Wetherspoon’s token

Market Tap, Preston

10%

Mill Tavern, Higher Walton

20%

Nabs Head, Samlesbury

20p per pint

Old Vic, Preston

50p per pint using a Wetherspoon’s token except Thu when real ale is discounted for all customers

Original Withy Trees, Bamber Bridge

10%

Pear Tree, Penwortham

20p per pint

Plough, Grimsargh

20p per pint, 10p per half pint

Plungington Hotel, Preston

10p per pint

Poachers, Bamber Bridge

10%

Preston Grasshoppers RFC

10%

Prince of Wales, Cowling Brow, Chorley

10%

Prince Of Wales New Market Street, Chorley

10%

Roper Hall, Preston

10%

Sir Henry Tate, Chorley

50p per pint using a Wetherspoon’s token

Smiths Arms, Lea Town

20p per pint, 10p per half pint

Tap & Vine, Penwortham

10%

Trades Hall Club & Institute, Bamber Bridge

10%

Twelve Tellers, Preston

50p per pint using a Wetherspoon’s token

Walton Fox, Bamber Bridge

20p per pint

Wellington, Ashton

Up to 25p per pint

Wellington (Glovers Ct.), Preston

10%

Wings & Beer Co., Preston

10%

Yates, Preston

10%

If you know of a pub offering a discount that is not listed here, or one is listed that no longer offers a discount, please let us know.

If you are a licensee and are interested in joining the scheme then please contact editor@centrallancs.camra.org.uk

Join up, join in, join the campaign From as little as

£25†

a year. That’s less than a pint a month!

Or enter your details and complete the Direct Debit form below and you will receive 15 months membership for the price of 12 and save £2 on your membership subscription

✂

Protect the traditions of great British pubs and everything that goes with them by joining today at www.camra.org.uk/joinup

Alternatively you can send a cheque payable to CAMRA Ltd with your completed form, visit www.camra.org.uk/joinus, or call 01727 798440.* All forms should be addressed to Membership Department, CAMRA, 230 Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL1 4LW.

Your details:

Direct Debit

Title ................................ Surname ........................................................................................ Single Membership

Non DD

£25

£27

£30.50

£32.50

Forename(s) ........................................................................................................................... (UK & EU) Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) ............................................................................................... Joint Membership

Address ................................................................................................................................... (Partner at the same address) ....................................................................................................................................................

For concessionary rates please visit www.camra.org.uk .................................................................................. Postcode .............................................. or call 01727 798440.

Email address .........................................................................................................................

I wish to join the Campaign for Real Ale, and agree to Daytime Tel ............................................................................................................................ abide by the Memorandum and Articles of Association which can be found on our website.

Partner’s Details (if Joint Membership)

Title ................................ Surname ...............................................................................

Signed ......................................................................................

Forename(s) ..................................................................................................................

Date ..........................................................................................

Date of Birth (dd/mm/yyyy) ......................................................................................

Applications will be processed within 21 days.

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

This Guarantee should be detached and retained by the payer.

The Direct Debit Guarantee

Service User Number

9

2

6

Address

1

2

9

l

This Guarantee is offered by all banks and building societies that accept instructions to pay by Direct Debits

l

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

l

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

l

If you receive a refund you are not entitled to, you must pay it back when The Campaign Real Ale Ltd asks you to

l

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.

FOR CAMRA OFFICIAL USE ONLY This is not part of the instruction to your Bank or Building Society Membership Number Postcode

Name(s) of Account Holder

Name Postcode

Instructions to your Bank or Building Society Bank or Building Society Account Number

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.

Signature(s)

Reference Date

✂

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

†Price of single membership when paying by Direct Debit. *Calls from landlines charged at local rates, cost may vary from mobile phones.