Darren Statham shares memories of Richard

I wasn’t old enough to drink when the Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA was founded as a sub-branch of Leicester CAMRA in 2005. However, I have been able to call on Messrs David Miller, one of Richard’s closest friends, and David Finn our previous branch chair. Both of whom describe Richard to be one of the key men in establishing the branch.

Richard was one of the founding members, attending the very first meeting at the Black Horse on 7 September 2005. Back then, Hinckley was very much a Martsons stronghold. Whilst I, like many, enjoy an occasional pint of Pedigree, the limited choice of “Pedigree”, “Pedigree” or “Pedigree” was the driving reason for founding the branch.

The key theme that I hear talking to friends about Richard’s life is that he was quite organised. It’s no surprise then that, after the first year, Richard volunteered to take on the role of secretary. From here on, Richard’s input in helping to shape the branch began.

I understand Richard took it upon himself to review the CAMRA rules and regulations. In addition to his organisational skills, Richard was very meticulous, and this enabled him to keep the branch in line. From what I’ve heard, his hard work and dedication helped establish the foundations for a great team of people to come together and campaign for ale in the area.

In addition to his role as secretary, Richard was a full-on committed CAMRA member. He was very active in promoting the branch and Hinckley area to CAMRA headquarters, which was based in St. Albans at the time. This enabled Richard to cultivate relationships with some of the big names at the time, such as Roger Protz, as well as friendships with neighbouring branches, attending their meetings and events.

Even holidays would be used to further the branch cause, with Richard being one of the contributors to articles in the magazine – the Half Pint – writing up on pubs, breweries or beer festivals he’d visited and what they had to offer.

On top of all of this, Richard was always seen behind the bar at our beer festivals. In the early days of the branch, this consisted of a number of small beer festivals held in pubs. More recently, most of us will recall seeing and working with Richard volunteering at the annual Market Bosworth Rail Ale and Hinckley beer festivals.

I am starting to wonder how Richard’s wife Elizabeth tolerated all of this. After the discovery that Bass, Butler and Worthington had ties with Hinckley, the Three Brewer’s project that followed is described as Richard’s starring achievement for CAMRA and put the branch firmly on the map.

Supported by a team of volunteers, Richard chaired the project which benefited hugely from his organisational skills, connections and commitment to the CAMRA cause.

• Collaboration with the Hinckley and District Museum resulting in the “All Hail the Ale” three brewers’ exhibition at the museum on Lower Bond Street featuring memorabilia and original artefacts
  
• Organising the unveiling of two blue plaques in Hinckley commemorating Bass and Butler, inviting the Mayor of Burton upon Trent and Lady Gretton, the Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire at the time whose family was in business with Bass, along with a Bass delivery lorry on display in Castle Street with branch volunteers dressed in period costume
  
• A third plaque unveiled in Orton on the Hill commemorating William Worthington with another appearance of a vintage brewery vehicle with the plaque unveiled by guest of honour Steve Wellington, who was head brewer at Worthington brewery, with the church bells ringing out as the plaque was unveiled in recognition of Worthington
  
• The William Bass pubs trail involving a dozen pubs from Hinckley and the wider area, with pubs as far out as Peggs Green near Whitwick taking part
  
• The Bass Brewery shire horses making a special appearance at the Hinckley and District Museum and subsequent visit to the National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent
  
• Hinckley & Bosworth taking the spotlight through media coverage from the BBC and Leicester Mercury
  
• And finally rounding the project off with the Three Brewers being the central theme at the Hinckley Beer festival and a subsequent grand party at the Greyhound
  

All of this was made possible by a team of people lead by Richard. From what I understand I feel it is safe to say had anyone else led the project, it wouldn’t have achieved the same level of success.

Richard retired from his role as Branch Secretary in November 2019. However, he was still there, continuing to offer support and guidance whilst the new committee became established.

On top of all this Richard’s friends describe him as a gentleman who was always very welcoming both in the branch and out and about in the local pubs – such as the Dog & Hedgehog in Dadlington and the New Plough Inn, Hinckley where he could regularly be found propping up the bar.

Members and guests enjoyed an excellent trip to Chester on Saturday 5th July. This was the first social vintage bus trip, and it went really well with a good day being had by all. Thanks to the organisers and drivers.

The Dog & Hedgehog is being advertised nationally for sale as a pub, at £1.5 million. However the sale includes two cottages and around 1 acre of land. There is also outline planning permission for a number of shepherd huts on the grounds which can be rented out.

For more information see: https://www.christie.com/5854412/

The Duke of Rutland in Hinckley is currently closed and seeking new management. Admiral Taverns, the pub's owner, has been advertising for new tenants to take over the establishment. This follows a previous reopening in October 2024 under new landlords who introduced real ales and bar food, aiming to create a welcoming local venue .

The pub is also listed for sale as a freehold property, with an asking price of £225,000. The building features a traditional bar area, a pool room, and private accommodation across the upper floors

Located on Lower Bond Street near Hinckley town centre, The Duke of Rutland has historically been a community-focused, wet-led pub, popular among locals and known for hosting pool and darts teams .

The Nag's Head, Stapleton is currently closed, with Admiral Taverns looking for a new tenant on a five year agreement with a £12,000 investment. The Pub Company is advertising the pub as a fantastic opportunity to introduce food and is nestled in the heart of the village with a large beer garden with beautiful countryside views.

The Ashby Tavern on Ashby Road is being advertised on a Operator Managed agreement, with an investment of £2,000. Admiral Taverns have listed the pub as being in excellent condition following refurbishment, with a spectacular beer garden to the rear.

The Woolcomber, Burbage is still closed and is being advertised on a long term 5 year tenancy agreement.

The Duke of Rutland

The Woolcomber

The Admiral Taverns pub company is looking for new tenants, for both the Duke of Rutland in Lower Bond Street, Hinckley and The Woolcomber, Atkins Way, Burbage.

The Hinckley Rugby Club was used for the first time, as a venue, for the 4th March Branch Meeting.. The meeting was well attended and there was a good selection of ales available. Thank you to the new Manager Lilly

Golden Duck Brewery

The new owner of the Golden Duck Brewery, Alan will be taking over officially on 1st March, but during February the current owners will be handing over the operations. Harry will be helping Alan brew Tinners Tipple and Nosey Parker during February so hopefully the legacy will continue.

From the outgoing owners of the Golden Duck Brewery: "We would like to thank all our wonderfull customers who we have supplied beer to since 2012, pubs/clubs, our delivery club and the Friday night crew in the cellar bar. We would like to wish Alan all the best for the future… Harry, Andy, Hayley "

At the start of this year's AGM, Volunteer of the Year awards were made to two individuals, following nominations from branch members; Robin Janishiwskyj for his prolific beer scoring at various venues, and John Moyes our Secretary for putting in long hours behind the scenes as well as up front, also in providing extensive support at the Rail Ale Festival.

Robin Janishiwskyj receiving his award from the Chair - Tracy     John Moyes receiving his award from the Chair - Tracy

The chair, Tracy Ellis addressed those in attendance, with a summary of the year:-

I think since Covid 19, this is the first year where all our committee / officers have stood again which gives our branch stability and experience - thank you all.

As last year my gratitude goes out to Michelle, Deputy Chair for keeping an eager eye on my safety issues and the branch, making sure no one is in anyway harmed while volunteering for branch / CAMRA - thank you. John our Secretary with his calming influence and communicating skills which as the branch gets busier so does he.

Allan another good year on pub beer scores up by a substantial 25 %, may it increase, and trying to collate for the good beer guide, with that many variables and views from people you are bound to upset someone but you don’t seem to get stressed or flustered thank you.

Steve, a hard year for yourself to organise trips without a mini bus but you did:

• We had bus trip to Earl Shilton for a walkabout
• You teamed up with David Bates for Black Country ale rail trip
• Rail trip to Tamworth
• Another to Rutland beer festival
• A walk to Church End Brewery from Stoke
• Another rail trip to Friendly Inn at Frankton then on to Rugby
• Also to Tamworth beer festival
• Then finally on to Lichfield by rail to celebrate Peter Scott’s youthfulness

Thank you Steve

Lichfield 1 Lichfield 2 Lichfield 3 Lichfield 4

On to our membership, secretary Gary sustaining our membership around 417 members, not only getting us new members, 13 at Market Bosworth RailAle, but also helping Leicester branch and Scotland, very far reaching - Top marks.

On to David keeping his eye on the Leicestershire Drinker, keeping it afloat and trying to promote our area. Also for organising the now renowned black country and pie trip culminating at Mad O’Rourke’s pie factory. I do believe it is on all 2025 calendars as a bank holiday. Lych Gate - Wolverhampton 1 Lych Gate - Wolverhampton 2 Posada - Wolverhampton 1 Posada - Wolverhampton 2 Posada - Wolverhampton 3 Posada - Wolverhampton 4 Mad O'Rourkes Pie factory 1 Mad O'Rourkes Pie Factory 2 Mad O'Rourkes Pie Factory 3 Mad O'Rourkes Pie Factory 4

Stuart Leavitt keeping our web page up to date and constantly telling us what its on there, thank you for your patience from us troglodytes.

Katerina for helping Jackie with accounts without you we would have to go to COBAS - a total nightmare.

Our BLOs Steve and Rob for trying to keep in touch with the elusive brewers and help promoting their beers.

I better say thank you to my wife Sue for helping us out of a pickle with food and giving us pickle with our food

I deliberately left Jackie to last, our RailAle Beer Festival organise. This year was a formidable success and as a branch with our size and demographics. I am sure per size we contribute more to CAMRA than any other branch in our region. As usual in her calm casual manner even under pressure saw sales up by 8% on 2023 and just under £19,000. The hours you put in behind the scenes as well as in front is unsurpassed and is heartily appreciated, a real big thank you from me and branch.

But it was not just Jackie - her team such as Rob and Stuart for getting sponsorship - Michelle on her H&S keeping us safe, John on his staffing organising and also treasurer, and Tony Smith who volunteered for all the shifts over the weekend and all the rest that volunteered approximately 30 of you in all. Not forgetting the few who helped in drinking the 417 gallons of beer well-done. So lets put 25th to 27 July in our diary for next year event so we could do it all over again. If I have missed any body’s contribution to the branch my profound apologies, come and see me.
Rail Ale Volunteer thank you trip to Milestone Brewery 1 Rail Ale Volunteer thank you trip to Milestone Brewery 2 Rail Ale Volunteer thank you trip to Milestone Brewery 3 Rail Ale Volunteer thank you trip to Milestone Brewery 4

A summary of year:

• Apart from already mentioned social trips
• Our regular meeting on average was 28 the same as last year which with different days we had them on and present climate is good but it also included 6 different venues that we had not been to at all or for a while ,some worked some didn’t
  
• Also this year we sent 4 members down to St. Albans to complete the cellarman’s course so that increases our experience in branch and shares out work load more
  
• On to branch finance - same as last year I would like to say thank you to Darren and Louise for keeping our beer festival equipment stored which keeps our running cost low
  
• Our membership is stable and because of the rail ale festival success it leaves us in a good viable condition
  
• We have kept a steady ship regards our committee members / membership but on last year we have added Michelle as BLO of Pig in Muck and from no cider representatives to 3 sharing the role Gary, Karen, and Gwilym
  

The future:

We still have Vacant Committee positions:

• Clubs officer
  
• Locale officer
  
• Social media coordinator
  
• Young members contact
  
• Hinckley Branch tasting panel chair
  

If any member wants information on these roles and is prepared to offer help, please contact any of the committee members. − Because the success of rail ale we intend to send some one on first aid course and perhaps enrol on an open study social media marketing course − Also we intend to have three or four 50 seater coach trips this year, for a small charge. We are open for ideas – Please talk to Steve. − It is also our 20th anniversary as a branch can we have ideas on how you would like to celebrate?

Tracy Ellis, Chair of Hinckley and Bosworth CAMRA

A new Earl Shilton bar has opened in Wood Street, serving a range of changing cask and keg beers along with a large selection of drinks. Food is also being served in this very attractive bar and bistro.

The premises has been operating since 18th October and is managed by Rhea Dawson. Dogs are allowed in certain areas of the front bar and there is a tv showing TNT Sports Rugby. At the time of the visit, Theakston's XB and Hobgoblin IPA casks were on tap.

Current opening hours are:-

Thursday 4pm - 11pm
Friday 12pm - 11pm
Saturday 12pm - 11pm
Sunday 12pm - 6pm

The bar may be opened on the normally closed days by appointment

Photos taken from Fernleigh's Facebook pages

Congratulations to all of our Good Beer Guide 2025 pubs. The entries were chosen by a Branch sub committee, following an initial assessment of respective beer scores, and then a series of visits to a number of premises.

The Queen's Head

The Elbow Room

The George & Dragon

The New Plough Inn

The Pestle & Mortar

The Red Lion - Burbage

The Shilton Vaults

The Greyhound

The Waggon & Horses

The Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) Good Beer Guide – the UK’s best-selling beer and pub guide – is celebrating its 52nd edition with not one but two covers featuring two of the UK’s favourite locals: Coronation Street’s Rovers Return Inn, and Emmerdale’s Woolpack. The Guide, which surveys 4,500 of the best pubs across the UK, is the definitive beer drinker’s guide for those seeking the best pints in the nation’s pubs.

Volunteers from the Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival were treated to a thank you visit to the Milestone Brewery and walkabout around Newark. The trip was undertaken on the 8th September, with volunteers travelling to Newark by vintage bus.

Duke of Rutland, Hinckley Owned by Admiral Taverns was due to reopen on18th September with the licensee being the son of the new landlady at the Lime Kilns. It is proposed that the format going forward will encourage new clients with live music, quiz nights and other events.

The Belper Arms, Newton Burgoland may reopen in next 4 weeks with new tenants. Reportedly the licensee is the mother of a family group runningtwo other pubs and a wedding venue.

The proposed auction sale of the Sharnford Arms in June were not completed. Now due to be auctioned on 12th September with a reduced guide price of £300,000.

The Tops, Barwell is being advertised for sale as a Public House with asking price of £300,000

David Bates is coordinating a Black Country Rail trip including a visit to Mad O'Rourke's Pie Factory – details will be available at the September Meeting

A message from Jackie, our BFO for the Rail Ale Festival:-

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU

To every single volunteer who contributed to the astounding success of the RailAle Beer Festival. Your efforts are greatly appreciated!

By early afternoon Sunday we had remaining:

- NO Cider from 28

- 10 Beers from 67

- NO Pimms

- NO Prosecco

- Very little wine

Everyone who attended shared their joy of the Beer Festival, appreciating the broad variety and top-notch quality of beers and ciders. They all agreed it was a wonderful event.

Everyone would love to come back again!!!
Inside the Beer Hall
Inside the Marquee

As of Monday 15th April, the White Bear will no longer be operating as part of the Steamin’ Billy chain. However, it will continue to operate as normal.

The White Bear will now be open 7 days a week
Monday-Thursday 12:00-23:00
Friday and Saturday 12:00-01:00
Sunday 12:00-23:00

Pub Preservation Officer, Chris Merriman urges members to register their objections to the planning application, which involves the conversion of the Oddfellows Arms into two residential units and the construction of 5 new houses to the side and rear.

Members need to set out their objections clearly. The email does not need to be long, but it does need to explain the grounds on which they are objecting.

You have until Friday 19th April to submit your objections.

Reasons for objection may include: The fact that The Oddfellows Arms is the last community facility in the village and there are adopted Local Plan policies which protect such facilities from being lost or redeveloped.

There is a local community group who are willing to acquire the pub and operate it as a hub for the expanding village, which is entirely in line with the ideals of The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Localism Act.

The whole area of the pub buildings and car park are designated an Asset of Community Value (ACV) and the pub designated a community facility under DM25 of the HBBC planning policy and according to criteria in the HBBC Local Plan, should be preserved

Email your Objections: Make sure they identify planning application reference and address of the application in the subject box: Objections to Planning App. No: 24/00229/FUL, Oddfellows Arms, 25, Main Street, Higham On The Hill

Give your name and address at the end of the communication. You must give your name and address at the end of the communication, otherwise the objection will not be accepted.

Emails should be sent to ku.vog.htrowsob-yelkcnih@wenredlofgninnalp

Hopefully we can raise a storm of objections.

Chris Merriman
Email: ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@noitavreserpbup

The Ashby Tavern is due to reopen on Thursday 29th February. This is being launched as an Admiral Taverns mid market pub concept, within the Proper Pubs initiative. The reopening follows a £265,00 refurbishment including new fixtures and fittings and fairly extensive improvements to the beer garden.

Dog & Gun - Earl Shilton
A new steward has been appointed to the Stoke Golding Club. A couple have taken over as landlords of the Dog & Gun, Earl Shilton, although this may be a temporary move in advance of a new encumbant. One of Gary Buswell's final brews at the Lime Kilns will be on soon, called Bill’s Brown. On leaving the Lime Kilns, which may be the subject of an ACV, Gary is looking at a new brewery / tap premises in Melton Mowbray. New Buildings Brewery is brewing a winter special at 5.3%.

Dianne Bates     Colin Scott

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of two of the very valued Branch stalwarts in Dianne Bates and Colin Scott.

Dianne has been an active member almost since the creation of the Hinckley and Bosworth Branch of CAMRA in 2005. An ever present at the Hinckley Beer Festivals and the Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festivals, taking on many roles for the duration of these events.

In the past Dianne has acted as one of the accounts auditors as well as providing support to her husband David, in producing the Branch magazine.

Dianne has been the the face of the Branch in welcoming new members at their first meeting, and of relieving us all of money for monthly raffle tickets! A constant at all of the social events, Dianne will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are now with David and family.

Colin has also been a long standing active member of the Branch and was the Membership Secretary up to this year's AGM. Notably, stepping in to help the previous Branch Chair during the Covid pandemic, taking on the role of Deputy Chair providing welcome assitance at a very difficult time.

Colin also has been a great supporter of the Branch beer festivals, not just as Membership Secretary (signing up the local MP and one of the Borough Councillors, amongst others), but assisting in all areas.

As part of the Three Brewers celebration within the branch, Colin typically volunteered to act out the role of William Butler, dressed accordingly for the occasion.

Again a fantastic supporter of the branch social events. Colin will also be sadly missed and our thoughts are with Michelle.

Briefing on Save the Oddies Campaign

Kate Phillips – Secretary to STOP & Higham Community Benefit Society
Martin Phillips – Chair of Higham Community Benefit Society

‘Save the Oddies Pub’ (STOP) community group are campaigning to save the last remaining pub in Higham on the Hill from being redeveloped into housing. The previous owner closed the pub in August 2018.

The Parish Council obtained an ‘Asset of Community Value’ (ACV) on the pub. Cartwright Homes of Nuneaton bought the pub and land in 2019 and sought planning permission from Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council: 1st application – Demolish the pub and 20 to 25 houses on the whole site. 2nd application – Convert the pub into flats while retaining the façade. And build 20-25 houses behind 3rd application – most recent version was amended to build 9 houses and separate the pub and most of the car park from the area of the application. 1st and 2nd applications were rejected by the Planning Officers / Council 3rd application is still in progress and being considered by the Planning Officers / Council it’s a delegated determination so done by Planning Officer.

STOP has made several offers to buy the pub and car park – but has not received any reasonable response from Cartwrights, who refuse to set a sales price. We’ve had responses but nothing that we can negotiate further on. Since 2018 the Oddfellows Arms has been vacant / vandalised / flooded – leaving the building in a state requiring urgent repair.

‘Save the Oddies Pub’ (STOP) have worked with the Plunkett Foundation who provide practical advice, business support and training to help communities establish and run innovative and inclusive community businesses that make a positive impact for local people.

On advice STOP has now set up a Community Benefit Society known as Higham Community Benefit Society Limited. Higham Community Benefit Society Limited will be able to raise finance though public sale of shares to fund refurbishment of the pub buildings and establishment of a community hub. They are also able to apply for grants. The current business plan is:

• Higham Parish Council plan to obtain a loan from Public Works Loan Board (a statutory body of the UK Government that provided loans to public bodies) to buy the pub / carpark and lease back to Higham Community Benefit Society Limited.
  
• Higham Community Benefit Society Limited will manage and run the pub with a blend of paid staff and volunteers.
  
• Revenues raised will fund operating costs and repayment of the loan. The community have agreed that the Parish Council can raise the Parish Precept to cover the repayment of the loan, which means that Higham CBS will pay a peppercorn rent so that we can plough profits back into the community hub and business
  
• Government Community Ownership Fund and have been awarded a grant of £156,000 matched funding to put towards our refurbishment of the site.
  
• Public share sales will raise £250,000 at £50 each to match the refurbishment grant and provide working capital.
  Note: The business plan cannot be enacted, or the sale of shares begin until Cartwrights offer a sales price / agree to sell.

  HCBS will be doing the share offer soon - to ensure they can get going asap once the sale is agreed. The HBBC are reticent to consider a Compulsory Purchase Order. The frustrated dialogue between Higham Community Benefit Society Limited, Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council / Planning Officers and Cartwrights is ongoing. HBBC have facilitated meetings between all parties to try to move dialogue on. HVBS are frustrated by lack of movement by Cartwrights! The Planning Report (available on the HBBC portal) recommends refusal. If this is the decision made by the H&B Council, it is likely to appealed by Cartwrights. It will be weeks or months before any clear resolution and the business plan put into action. More information can be found on the Save the Oddies Pub website:
  
  https://savetheoddiespub.wixsite.com/stop/about You may contact Kate Phillips on email at moc.liamg@seiddoeht.yraterces

The Elbow Cask & Craft report that they have finally had two new Awnings installed and equipped with heaters just in time for the change in weather.

The Public Spirit, Edwards Centre, Regent Street, is a new bar which has opened in premises that were formerly occupied by nightclub Out Out. It is unlikely to be offering real ale.

The Clarence kitchen has been revamped and is now offering a new food menu, and has agreed to serve beers from Church End.

The Railway is undergoing a £250k refurbishment and is due to reopen on the 10th November.

Wetherspoons has confirmed it is no longer looking for a site in Hinckley.

The coach trip took place on Saturday 10th September and was organised as a Thankyou to volunteers at this year's Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival. The locations for the visit included Hook Norton and Banbury.

The New Plough Inn
The New Plough Inn is continuing to provide a range of beers under the Marstons Flex scheme, with the latest selection originating from the Derby Brewing Company. Previously beers from Brewsters and Byatts have been on tap. This arrangement means that the pub can have up to nine cask ales on at any one time.

The Belper Arms
The Belper Arms is being run by new landlords and is open from 12:00 to 23:00 daily with food being served for lunch and dinner.

Ye Olde Red Lion
The new cellar is now operational at the Ye Olde red Lion following the flooding in July, with real ales back on tap. Additionally, after changes to the beer garden were made with the demolition of a wall and erection of a fence, a retrospective planning application has had to be raised.

The Oddfellows Arms - Higham on the Hill

Following the announcement that the Oddfellows Arms Community Benefit Society have been awarded £156,000 matched funding from the Government Community Ownership Fund, the following statement was posted on the The Oddfellows - Higham on the Hill facebook page:-

""Many of you have already heard but we are very pleased to announce that we succeeded in our bid for the Government Community Ownership Fund and have been awarded £156,000 matched funding. This is based on our current share pledges and other funding. This is really positive as it shows the faith that the funders have in the project. We still need your support though to see the project through! Here’s link to Luke Evans press release that he shared on the Higham Facebook page: https://www.drlukeevans.org.uk/.../oddfellows-arms... He and the borough councillors have been very supportive throughout. If you are in the parish you will be getting a leaflet from the Parish Council, inviting you to a consultation meeting on the 17th July and outlining the proposals for a Public Works Loan (PWL) to purchase the pub for the community. This approach is a tried and tested method for community groups. The Higham CBS and STOP team will also be there to help answer questions you might have about the project. The Community Benefit Society is a cooperative, so anyone who buys shares in the company can contribute to the planning and projects we develop. We are working on our shareholders pack and will be giving you more information very soon on how it works and how to buy shares but in the meantime keep pledging so we can show the community support we have. Join the 200 supporters already signed up to be part of the CBS! Find out more here https://savetheoddiespub.wixsite.com/stop/support""

Congratulations to all those involved in the campaign and fund raising to support this vital community asset.

The Pub of the Year 2023 Award being presented to Louise and Darren of the New Plough Inn

Award presented to Louise and Darren by the CAMRA National Chair - Nik Antona and Branch Chair - Darren Latham

For the second year in succession the award was presented to Louise and Darren Lavender last night. On this occasion, the CAMRA National Chair was available to present the certificate to Louise and Darren, congatulating them both and commending them for raising over £100,000 for charities in recent years.

The event was very well attended with CAMRA members and regular customers, whilst Louise thanked all those, including staff that helped to make The New Plough Inn, Pub of the Year 2023.

Apart from the regular Marston's beers, including Bass Mild and a selection of ciders there was also a range of Byatts ales provided under the "beer flex" trial, on offer.

Pestle&Mortar       Shilton Vaults

There is to be a joint Beer Fest between the Pestle & Mortar and the Shilton Vaults on the 4th to 8th May to coincide with the coronation of King Charles. Between the two micropubs, there are plans to include the following:-

• 15 guest ales
  
  
• 19 Ciders
  
  
• 10 Key Kegs

Sue and John have made the offer that anyone having purchased eight pints during this period will be able to claim the next pint free!

In addition, The Pestle & Mortar will be closed from Sunday 6pm 23rd to Tuesday 3pm 25th April for some "interesting" modifications. Watch this space!!

Having confirmed that the 2023 Pub of the Year, Cider Pub of the Year and the Club of the Year would automatically be submitted for the 2024 Good Beer Guide, three teams surveyed the remaining top nine pubs and clubs based on the branch beer scores. Each survey team then went to six establishments. The scoring was based on quality of the beer, cleanliness, welcome, décor, community involvement and adherence to CAMRA aims. The subsequent average scores were consistent between the three teams. This process has produced the following GBG submissions for 2024 based on the combined scores;-

• New Plough
  
• Pestle & Mortar
  
• Sapcote Club
  
• George and Dragon
  
• Shilton Vaults
  
• Queens Head (Hinckley)
  
• Gate Hangs Well
  
• Elbow Room
  

The reserves are Lime Kilns and Weavers. Additional reserves if required are Rising Sun and White Swan

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL ENTRIES FOR THE 2024 GOOD BEER GUIDE

Cock Inn - Sibson

Following a local campaign, the owners of the Cock Inn at Sibson, Star Pubs and Bars, have confirmed that they will renovate, refurbish and reopen the pub. The Cock Inn was closed in 2019 and is one of the oldest pubs in the country, dating back 750 years. Dick Turpin is reputed to have sought refuge from the authorities here. It is no surprise that the building is listed, and requires extensive and sympathetic renovation work, prior to the refurbishment and eventual reopening.

As reported by branch member Nick Robinson, the Stoke Golding Club will have Jaipur on tap as of Tuesday next week (24 January) for a limited period. Moreover, for CAMRA members on production of a members card, it will be at the special price of £3.50 a pint. Their regular real ale, Church End's 'Foxes Hat', will also be on at £3.20 a pint, again on production of a CAMRA members card

This is part of an initiative to encourage more real ale drinkers to attend the Club and they are hoping that in time that they will be able to offer three or even four real ales at any one time (apparently they do have four hand pumps rather than the three reported at the last meeting), and as implied in an earlier news item.

According to the Leicester Mercury, new plans have been lodged to renovate the former Bull's Head pub in Nailstone.

The pub, dating back to the 1830s has been closed for about two years, but a scheme has been lodged to undertake significant renovation and create a two-storey rear extension. Part of the refurbishment plan will cover replacing the current toilets including facilities for disabled customers.

The planning documents state that the renovated pub will be a “valuable community asset”for the village of Nailstone.