The tenants at The Crown, Appleby will be leaving in 3-4 weeks having failed to resolve the contract negotiations.

The tenants at The Crown, Appleby will be leaving in 3-4 weeks having failed to resolve the contract negotiations.

On Friday 22nd January H&BBC refused planning permission for the demolition of the Holywell Inn and erection of dwellings. We regard this as very good news and an excellent show of support by the Council for all supporters of the public house as an ACV.

With many thanks to all of you who protested in whatever way.

Tim and Lisa have given notice to leave the Elephant & Castle fairly soon.

The Star, Stoney Stanton, has a new landlord. Details will be provided when available.

Following a short closure this pub, made a 'must visit' venue by Steve Jackman, is re-opening as a Black Country Ales pub. There will be 3 Black Country ales + 9 further handpulls for guest ales and ciders. The new landlord is Nick who was previously at The Wagon & Horses, Halesowen.

The Sandford Park Alehouse, Cheltenham has just been named as the CAMRA National Pub of the Year, Congratulations!

At the Branch meeting on 1st March, the following winners for 2016 were announced:

Pub of the Year (POTY)

The Lime Kilns Inn, Burbage
2nd Queens Head
3rd New Plough

Club of the Year (COTY)

Burbage & District Constitutional Club
2nd Earl Shilton Constitutional Club
3rd Citizens Club

Cider Pub of the Year (CPOTY)

The Pestle & Mortar, Hinckley
2nd Lime Kilns
3rd Elbow Room

Update - from Hinckley Times -the pub was sold for a reported £136K +VAT to an, as yet, unknown buyer

Update : There are now new tenants, Victoria and Terry Henwood who have previously been at the Bell Inn in Bloxwich.

The Embankment pub in Nottingham has been Grade II listed meaning that it cannot be altered or demolished without the appropriate Government Department agreement.

Adam at the Railway is asking for suggestions from CAMRA members, for guest Beers for April from a list of Breweries he can now access. Here is the list, Railway Beer Choice - April but time is limited due to the dateline for ordering.

His Guest list for March is already confirmed as below... Arriving in the Cellar in March are:

Lymestone Brewery - Pounamu
Downton Brewery - Mad Hare
B&T - Mad Hatter
Wold Top Brewery - Spring Fling
Eight Sail - Flour Power
Welbeck Abbey - Watermeadows
Bad Co Brewery - Comfortably Numb
Clarkshaw's - Gorgons Alive

Also he will be having a special event for the Boat Race: In time for The Varsity Boat Race he has lined up a 'BEER Boat RACE' Oxford Vs Cambridge due to hit the bar on Wednesday 23rd - see Which Beer 'Sinks' the Quickest and Sails Out First.

After a change of hands and refurbishment the the Waggon and Horses pub in Halesowen is re-opening.

Family run Stilton Cheese Inn (East Midlands POTY 2015) wins Melton Camra pub of the year award for second year running. !

The Gravity has now been re-named as the Gas Works . They should have 2 changing real ales, however neither were on when visited at the end of March

The Seven Stars in Birchfield Road, Redditch declared ACV. The Seven Stars has been ring-fenced by the local Council after a campaign headed by Redditch & Bromsgrove Branch of CAMRA. The CAMRA Branch Chariman commented on the Charity and team events centered on the pub, despite it's closure for 3 months during 2014.
They are now monitoring the threat to the White Lion in Astwood Bank, which appears to be under threat for Housing Development.
For more information go to the Ledbury reporter item at ... Seven Stars now ACV

Remember, clicking to Newspaper pages will probably be heavy on download and advertisments

The Thirsty 30: raise a toast to Britain's best pubs, by reading the Daily Telegraph article - 'Daily Telegraph, a toast to Britain's best pubs', at the link below.
The top 5 pubs as determined by readers are:-

1. The Hand and Heart, Nottingham 65-67 Derby Road, Nottingham NG1 5BA (0115 958 2456;   Hand and Heart, Nottingham)
2. General Eliott, South Hinksey Oxfordshire OX1 5AS (01865 598068; thege.co.uk) No Real Ale
3. The Cow, London W2 89 Westbourne Park Road, London W2 5QH (020 7221 0021; The Cow, Bayswater, Lonon)
4. Hail to the Ale, Wolverhampton Pendeford Avenue, Claregate, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton WV6 9EF (07846 562910; Hail to the Ale, Wolverhampton)  
5. The Crown, Hastings 64-66 All Saints Street, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3BN (01424 465100; The Crown, Hastings)

Other pubs from our area in the top 30 are...
7. The Devonshire Arms, Burton on Trent 86 Station Street, Burton upon Trent DE14 1BT (01283 562392; Devonshire Arms, Burton upon Trent) 
11. The Wellington, Birmingham 37 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham B2 5SN (0121 200 3115; The Wellington, Birmingham)   
 
 For the full list of pubs in places from Somerset to Aberdeen go to
The Thirsty Thirty

Remember, clicking to Newspaper pages will probably be heavy on download and advertisments  

Following a major refurbishment by it's owners Punch Taverns, the Royal Oak, Kenilworth has now re-opened. This traditional Grade II listed, former POTY (2014) of the Coventry CAMRA Branch, is now open for business again.
For further background go to the Leamington Courier item at ... Royal Oak re-opens

The latest edition of our free Half Pint newsletter has already hit the pubs, so look for it in a pub near you.
Features include a report on the CAMRA AGM and Part 6 of the History of Beer

For a full size image of the front page, click on one of the thumbnails.

This is for the period May to July, so congratulations and thanks once again to David & Dianne who have edited each one.

If you think you have ideas for content, then e-Mail Dave at
ku.gro.armachtrowsobdnayelkcnih@rotidetnipflah

Tim and Lisa Brotherhood and their family left the Elephant and Castle Thurlaston, on the 9th May. They have made this pub into one of the favourite venues in the Branch area, and have collected several awards there during their tenure, including Branch POTY in 2010, and 'Pub of the Month' in December 2009.

Lisa's pies have gained widespread fame and the welcome they extended, together with their enthusiastic embracing of CAMRA and Beer Festivals, will mean that their successors will find the standard ('the bar?') set at a high level.

The April Branch Meeting provided the opportunity to say farewell to Tim and Lisa, and for the presentation of a certificate to mark their eight years in charge.

The new incumbents are Ady and Karen from Fleckney.

In it’s ‘Pint to Pint’ series the 7th May edition of the Daily Telegraph featured ‘Ye Olde Red Lion’ in Market Bosworth. The author Chris Arnot postulates that, according to the manager Kelly Leach, parts of the pub may have been in existence as early as six years after the nearby Battle of Bosworth.

There is also an explanation for a photo in the bar, of a fox peering over the edge of a roof. Apparently this particular fox took refuge on the roof of a nearby butcher’s shop, when being pursued by the Atherstone Hunt, sometime in 1984. It appears that the hunts men and women retired to the Red Lion bar, having given up trying to entice the fox down.

In the article, Chris Arnot describes the current décor of the pub and details the food and real ales consumed during the visit.

See The Thirsty Thirty for Daily Telegraph article on Britain's Best Pubs.

Updated 10th May 2016

Carolyn was appointed as Steward at the Ashby Road Sports Club in 2013, with Ian as spouse to assist.

At their June meeting the Hinckley & Bosworth Branch of CAMRA thanked the pair for hosting monthly meetings and more recently the AGM, and for the excellent buffets prepared by Carolyn and the imaginative choice of beers obtained by Ian. The Chairman David Finn said that it was very much down to Carolyn and Ian that the Ashby Road Sports Club has been the recipient of so many CAMRA awards – the Branch COTY for 2010 to 2013 and 2015 and also East Midlands COTY.

The Branch wish them every happiness for the future in their retirement.

The new stewards are Andrew & Chiquita

The Sportsman Inn reopened as The White Bear on 23rd June

The Sportsman Inn on Coventry Road which has been closed since the end of May, reopened at 6pm on the 23rd June, after a significant £150,000 refurbishment by the new owner, ‘Steamin’ Billy’.

The owners say that the pub will provide Steamin’ Billy style street food and craft ales and will feature a greatly revamped beer garden. There is to be a grand opening party on the 7th July for invited guests.

Updated 27th June 2016

New ale house and kitchen venture taking on the Prince of Wales

The Leicester based Broood ale house and kitchen are taking over the Prince of Wales public house on Coventry Rd from 22nd August. They will be showcasing the XT range of beers together with micro brewery beers from across the whole UK.

The intention is to have a beer festival shortly which is penciled in for the first weekend in September.

Broood is a new venture which is also hoping to take on the lease for “Sloane’s Bar” on King Street, Leicester.

Updated 29th July

The Appleby Inn hotel is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year by selling Appleby anniversary ale (AAA), a 4% hoppy bitter full of flavour, brewed by the recently refurbished Heritage Brewing Company (formerlly Bass Museum). it is expected to be on sale for most of the anniversary year.

Updated 2nd August

Roundup of August’s Pub News

• The Red Lion in Burbage (photos above) was refurbished in July with wooden flooring and new seating inside, and outside a revamped drinking and smoking area at the side of the pub. There is also now a choice of 4 hand pumps: Bass, Doom Bar and 2 guests. Everards Tiger may stay permanently.
  
  
• A licensing application was listed in the Hinckley Times for a new bar to be called ‘Angelos’ at 7 Edwards Centre, Regent Street (formerly Harry’s Place).
  
  
• The Woolly has reverted back to its original name of The Woolcomber and has been repainted outside.
  
  
• The Elephant and Castle, Thurlaston will be holding a Beer festival from 8 to 10 September. Open Thursday 8 noon to 3pm and 5pm till midnight, 9 and 10, noon to midnight. Food will be served at all sessions.
  
  
• The New Plough is having a Bank Holiday Guest Beer Festival from 25th to 31st August
  

• Adam from The Railway has sent notice of some events they are running. First is a Collector Card for “Buy 8 Guest Beers and get the 9th free”. Saturday 10 September is a Last Night of the Proms meal followed by Opera singing. They are also holding a Beer Festival for Cask Ale Week from 22nd to 25th September, featuring 16 Beers (which are included in the Collector Card Promotion – Buy 8 Get 1 Free).

  CAMRA Members are invited to a Preview Evening on Thursday 22nd September with a buffet & Steamin’ Billy hospitality. Last is a Charity ‘CONKERS CHAMPIONSHIP’ on 8 October in aid of The Matt Hampson Foundation.

• The Lime Kilns is holding a Beer festival from 9th to 11th September

Updated 7th August

• The Nags Head Stapleton changed hands on 8 August and is now being run by Jason and Emilia.
  
  
• The Prince of Wales reopened on 24 August and will be holding an official opening and launch party on 13 September. They now also have a live online ‘Beer Board’ showing which beers are currently on
  
  
• In Earl Shilton, The King William closed on 29 August. There are rumours that it is due for demolition for housing or a supermarket.
  
  
• The Red Lion, Earl Shilton closes for refurbishment on the 18 September for around one month. Lee will be leaving and there is sign up for a new licensee. The building is said to be in a poor condition and in need of significant investment.
  
  
  
• The Dog & Gun, Earl Shilton. have been working to improve the pub and want to mark their 1st anniversary on 12 October with a small event. They are serving bar food again. The beer garden has been updated, with artificial grass, BBQ area and covered smoking area. The Tap Room bar is having 3 new hand pulls. The tiled floor in the Games Room is being restored, and they hope to complete the work by 12 September.
  
  They should have 2 guests and 4 regular beers, which will probably be Burton Bitter, Pedigree, Old Empire and Ringwood 49er.
  
  
• The Stoneycroft Club plan to refurbish the club, and hope to complete this during October.
  
  
• In Stoney Stanton, The Bulls Head is having some minor building work to improve the outside seating area.
  
  
• Ellen is leaving The White Swan in Stoke Golding on Sunday 11 September, and will be going to the Stag & Pheasant in Hartshill. The pub is scheduled to be closed for 2 weeks, there is no replacement tenant at the moment but it looks like Everards want to keep it open.
  
  
• The Belper Arms, Newton Burgoland is currently closed but is expected to re-open around 14 September with new tenants.
  
  
• The tenants at the Black Horse Inn, Appleby Magna have given notice to leave by the end of April.
  
  
• The Ex-Servicemen’s Club Hinckley is closed and for sale.
  
  
• The Elbow Room will be celebrating their 1st year anniversary weekend with music and beer festival during 17th to 20th November.
  
  

Thank you to our pubs officer, Jackie for this update

Updated 11th September

The Burbage & District Constitutional Club has been awarded East Midlands CAMRA Club Of The Year 2016, making it the best of the best of all Clubs in the six counties. This wonderful achievement is being marked with a presentation by the CAMRA Regional Director, during the Branch AGM. This AGM has been relocated to the Burbage Constitutional Club in light of the award presentation.

Updated 19th September

• The White Swan, Stoke Golding is due to re-open around 19 October after Everards have carried out essential maintenance work. The new tenant, Jamie, comes from Leicester and this will be his first time running a pub.
  
  
• The Countryman, Sharnford closed on 1st October and was due to re-open on 7 October with new owners.
  
  
• The Belper Arms, Newton Burgoland re-opened on 14th September with a new tenant, Diane O'Donnell.
  
  

Many thanks to pubs officer Jackie for the update

Updated 11th October

The Black Horse at Walcote will re-open as a community pub on Friiday 2nd December at 7pm.

The new landlord is Nathan Miles.

Updated 22nd November

The latest edition of our free Half Pint newsletter is out now, so look for it in a pub or club near you. Introducing the Elbow Room micro-pub and family, as the first anniversary is celebrated. There is also the report from this year's Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival, a further installment of "The History of Beer" by David Finn and details of an interesting circular pub walk which can be commenced at the Lime Kilns.

For a full size representation of the front page, click on the image.

This is for the period November 2016 to January 2017. As always, congratulations and thanks go to David & Dianne Bates who have edited this edition.

The Framework Brewery has recently opened at the Old City Depot, Friday Street, Leicester. For further details see the website Framework Brewery and the Facebook page Framework Brewery Facebook

Updated 16th January 2017

• Attempts by Alan Tingley from the Globe at Snarestone, to take on the lease of the Black Horse in Appleby Magna failed and it closed on 8th December.
  
  
• The Blue Bell in Stoney Stanton is advertised on the Everards website as being to let.
  
  
• The Red Lion at Pinwall is subject to a planning application for the conversion into five houses. The pub has been closed for several years.
  
  
• The lease for the Black Horse at Sheepy Magna has been put up for sale by the landlord.
  

Updated 16th January 2017

This April, I will be joining CAMRA members from across the UK in the seaside resort of Bournemouth for CAMRA’s Members’ Weekend, which includes our National AGM and Conference.

I have been attending the CAMRA Members’ Weekend for almost 30 years, well before I was active nationally, never mind National Chairman. Those of you who were in Norwich in 2013 may remember that I still have my glass from my first AGM weekend, as they were then called, in Norwich in 1990. Even prior to becoming Chairman, I always made an effort to travel to whichever corner of the country the weekend was held and have only missed one since then - and was even organiser in Edinburgh in 1998. It has always been, and still is, an opportunity to meet with old friends, make new acquaintances and socialise with other CAMRA members from across the country.

Most importantly, the Members’ Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for any member across the organisation – whether you have just joined, been a member for 20+ years, active or inactive – to shape the future direction and purpose of CAMRA.

As Chairman, I now have the great responsibility of making sure that the AGM and Conference part of the Members’ Weekend is run successfully and open to every single one of our 185,000 members. This year, that responsibility is even greater than ever before.

Following 50 consultation meetings across the UK and three national surveys, we have now seen the proposals that were put forward by the Revitalisation Project Steering Committee on CAMRA’s future. Whether you agree or disagree with the proposals, took part in the consultation events or stayed at home, the Members’ Weekend will be the opportunity to discuss them inside and out ahead of a decision next year.

Over the weekend, members will be able to consider the Revitalisation Project and proposals on the future of CAMRA in a series of discussion groups. It will be your chance to have a say on the Revitalisation Project’s findings and represent your views in the debate. A final decision on the proposals will then be taken at the Members’ Weekend in 2018.

I am proud to chair an organisation that is a true democracy – where every member has the opportunity to feed into our policies, direction and future. I never forget that without our huge membership base and dedicated volunteers; there simply would not be a CAMRA.

I hope you will consider joining us in Bournemouth this year. The closing date for registration is Friday 17th March 2017. For more information simply visit CAMRA AGM website.

Updated 31st January 2017

• Admiral are again looking for new tenants at the Red Lion Barwell.
  
  
• The Red Lion, Earl Shilton was due to reopen on 13th Feb after a refurbishment by Punch.
  
  
• The Francis Arms in Stoney Stanton closed on 4th January when the landlord left, nothing else is known.
  
  
• The Black Horse at Appleby Magna remains closed until Marston’s can find a new tenant.
  
  
• The new licensee at the Elephant & Castle did a mail shot to all the villagers including a free pint for all who came in to say hello. Apparently they had a good response!
  
  
• This week The Countryman in Sharnford will be renamed the Bricklayers and be re-launched. They are interested in joining the Discount Scheme giving 30p off a pint to members, and have plans to extend the pub.
  
  
• The Dog & Gun, Hinckley has applied for planning permission to extend at the back and to convert the 1st floor into a restaurant. Their first 2 beers were Bombardier and Doom Bar and they are now looking to vary these - possibly including Salopian Oracle.
  
  
• In January we visited the Bank in Earl Shilton and although they do not have any real ale at the moment, they do serve 4 real ciders. If trade warrants it they may serve real ale in the future.
  
  
• News from just out of our area - The Rugby Tap Room has just been voted Pub of the Year 2016 by Rugby CAMRA for the second year running. It is the town’s only micropub and opened in 2014 serving beers straight from the barrel.
  
  

Many thanks to pubs officer Jackie for the update

Updated 17th February

• The Clarendon, Hinckley is reported to have stopped selling cask ales. Last Tuesday there was a fire possibly started by an electrical fault, and the pub is temporarily shut for repairs.
  
  
• The Elephant & Castle had a new landlord in January. Paul and Lisa now have a new food menu, and Everards are redecorating and renovating the toilets.
  
  
• Alan Tingey from the Globe at Snarestone, finally took over the lease of the Black Horse in Appleby Magna towards the end of February.
  
  
• The Red Lion, Barwell changed hands again in February 2017 – the new landlord is Del Clifford.
  
  
• The Red Lion, Earl Shilton reopened in February after major refurbishments by Punch. The new landlord is Phil Hughes and he is offering CAMRA members 20p off a pint of cask ale on production of a membership card. He also hopes to hold some mini beer festivals for the summer.
  
  
• The Chequers in Burbage has refurbished the garden, patio and smoking areas.
  
  
• Wetherspoon’s Baron will be holding their Spring Real-Ale festival from 22 March until 2 April with 30 festival beers from 30 breweries, of which 25 are in the UK and 5 are overseas. The festival line-up also includes new, seasonal and specialty beers, many of which have been brewed exclusively for them.
  
  
• Burbage Community Arts Festival ‘music in the pubs’ will be held on 3 May from 8pm in the village pubs
  
  

Updated 12th March

Leicester CAMRA is supporting ‘Mild in May’ by running a Mild Trail across Leicester and Leicestershire from 29th April to 3rd June. There will be an opportunity to enjoy both the Mild and perhaps visit some pubs new to you.

The Mild Trail involves collecting stickers by visiting as many of the listed pubs as you can and ordering a pint (or half) of cask mild, then obtaining a trail sticker for your chart. The April/May edition of the Leicester Drinker features a centrespread of participating venues on a chart, or the same can be downloaded from the Leicester Branch web page Leicester CAMRA Mild Trail.

Everyone collecting 12 or more different pub stickers will have the chance to receive a unique limited edition ”Sweet Child of Mine” Leicester Mild Trail 2017 T-Shirt.

The organised crawls are:

• Saturday 29th April Coach trip to launch Mild in May, visiting Cow & Plough Stoughton, Beerhouse Market Harborough (also incorporating Pub of The Year presentation), Chandlers Arms Shearsby, Plough Bruntingthorpe, Queens Arms Leire and General Elliott Willoughby Waterleys. Contact socials@leicester.camra.org.uk to book a seat.
• Tuesday 16th May A late afternoon and evening trip by train and bus to Sileby, Syston & Barkby.
• Saturday 20th May A day out visiting the Mild Trail pubs in Hinckley. Travel by bus or train.

  Updated 20th April

• The Three Tuns in Barlestone has a new landlady - Julie Bowen
  
  
• The Sycamores in Burbage has virtually completed the revamped patio and children's play area
  
  
• There is no change yet at the Black Horse, Appleby Magna and it remains closed
  

Many thanks to pubs officer Jackie for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Jackie on:- ku.gro.armachtrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

Updated on 8th May

David Finn, the Branch Chairman presents the Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA Pub of the Year 2017 award to Phil and Dawn Jackson of the Queen's Head, on 10th May. This year's success follows previous Pub of The Year awards received by the Queen's Head in 2013, 2014 and Jointly with the Railway in 2015.

Updated 16th May 2017

David Finn, the Branch Chairman presents the Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA Club of the Year 2017 award to Dave Banks of the Burbage & District Constitutional Club, on 16th May. This year's success follows the Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA Club of The Year 2016 award and The East Midlands CAMRA Club of the Year 2016 award.

Updated 29th May 2017

ROUNDUP OF JUNE'S PUB NEWS

• The Belper Arms in Newton Burgoland now has 5 regular beers and one changing beer which are all selling well. They have also recently passed the Cask Marque inspection.
  
  
• The Gate Hangs Well at Carlton has been redecorated.
  
  
• The Red Lion, Barwell had another new licensee at the end of May.
  
  
• Having announced his intention to leave, the landlord of The Black Horse, Sheepy Magna has found a potential buyer for the lease.
  
  
• At the Greyhound, Hinckley, the 2 front bars have been painted and refurbished with new lights, carpets, seats reupholstered and tables re-varnished.
  
  
• The Clarendon, Coventry Road is still closed while they wait for the insurance to be sorted out. The fire was at the back so the whole building is closed.
  
  
• The White Swan in Stoke Golding will be holding a beer festival on 16, 17 and 18 June 2017. Live music on Friday night will be with The Craic - very popular Irish band, Saturday night is an acoustic set from James Edgar and Sunday lunchtime there is a bouncy castle to keep the kids busy while dads are trying the beer on Father's Day!
  

And news from neighbouring Leicester CAMRA Branch:-

• The Real Ale Classroom in Leicester opened a second pub on Station Road in Lutterworth on Saturday 3 June. It is a three roomed pub in a similar style to their first pub with the beers listed on a blackboard and served direct from casks in a cooler behind the bar. They also have a garden and smoking shelter.
  
  
• According to this month’s Leicester Drinker, The Blue Boar will be opening its second pub in June. The Ale Stone will be on Aylestone Road, Aylestone near the Co-op.
  
  

Many thanks to pubs officer Jackie for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Jackie on:- ku.gro.armachtrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

HINCKLEY RUGBY CLUB JOINS THE CAMRA SCHEME

Hinckley Rugby Football Club (HRFC) has agreed to admit CAMRA members into the club free of charge on production of their valid CAMRA membership card.

HRFC are also offering members a 10p reduction in price per pint of bitter bought in the club, again on production of their CAMRA card.

The Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival got off to a steaming start yesterday 21st July, with plenty of beers on offer, supplemented by good food, fruit wines and Pimms. There are a number of magnificent working steam engines on display, along with other attractions. There is also the opportunity to take a trip on the steam train with a selection of real ales being served on board. The festival continues today and tomorrow with a range of activities, including live music on both days. For further details see Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival 2019.

Last updated 21 July 2017

Church End Brewery's "Goats Milk" has been named Supreme Champion at the Great British Beer Festival. The beer is described as golden yellow and produced from pale barley, crystal malt and oats, lightly supplemented with aromatic hops.

GBBF is continuing until Saturday 12th August, For details see: Great British Beer Festival 2017

CHURCH BELLS RING FOR GREAT BREWER. The bells of St Edith’s Parish Church rang out as a Blue Plaque honouring the life of William Worthington was unveiled in the village of Orton-on-the-Hill. Worthington was born in the village in the Borough of Hinckley & Bosworth and went on to become one of the three great brewers who all came from the Hinckley area.

The Blue Plaque event took place at the village’s Unicorn Inn and was jointly arranged by Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA and Hinckley & District Museum supported by the Borough Council.

Special guests included the Deputy Mayor of Hinckley & Bosworth Jan Kirby, Councillor Stanley Rooney who is responsible for Heritage, and County Councillor Ivan Ould who represents the area. Carl Brett, CAMRA’s Regional Director for the East Midlands also attended. Colin Goss the landlord of the Unicorn and his wife were present.

As well, a vintage brewery vehicle had been driven down from the National Brewery Centre Burton-on-Trent made an excellent backdrop to the event. It has the enviable number plate of ALE 1. The main guest of honour was Steve Wellington, with his wife Carolyn, who unveiled the plaque. Steve is well known within the industry as a beer champion and an award winning master brewer.He also has a passion for microbreweries, for brewing history and for re-creating long lost brands of beer. As Head Brewer at the Worthington Brewery in Burton-on-Trent there could be no one more fitting than Steve to unveil the plaque in honour of William Worthington.

On a perfect summer’s evening some 55 people gathered in front of the Unicorn for the ceremony. After a welcome by Richard Lewin of CAMRA, Gregory Drozdz of Hinckley Museum gave an interesting and informative talk about the history behind this event. Steve Wellington’s speech followed and the church bells rang out as he unveiled the Blue Plaque commemorating William Worthington.

The bell-ringing was significant as Worthington himself was a bell ringer. Graham Titley, St Edith’s Church Tower Captain said “He was an accomplished and enthusiastic ringer who went on to use his wealth to endow many churches in the Burton area with bells”. The bell ringing itself was an attractive addition but was further enhanced by the presence of Worthington’s great grandson as one of the bell ringers.

Finally the party moved indoors to toast the life of William Worthington and enjoy a buffet. St Edith's Church Orton on the Hill where on 22nd August 2017 a quarter peal of bells rang out for William Worthington.

The above review was provided by Richard Lewin, Three Brewers Committee

newsletter is out now, so look for it in a pub or club near you. This edition provides details of the upcoming 10th Hinckley Beer Festival and an update on continuing Three Brewers celebrations. The centre fold of the newsletter contains the associated Bass Ale Trail guide which maps the local pubs that are taking part in the scheme, along with a sheet for collecting the stickers.

For a full size representation of the front page, click on the image.

This is for the period August to October 2017. As always, congratulations and thanks go to David & Dianne Bates who have edited this edition.

Another successful festival supported by residents of the town and tourists from as far as Surrey, West Sussex, London and Yorkshire. This included the champion “ ticker” of Great Britain, Brian Moore of Sheffield, who had travelled to Hinckley to sample 20 beers that he had not tasted before to add to his collection of over 63000 beers! He doesn’t drink them, he takes them home. After visiting our festival he was intending to follow our new, revised, Hinckley Ale Trail when I advised him of more new beers on offer in the town’s pubs.

Our claim to be a small, friendly CAMRA festival certainly seems to have been upheld, thanks to our branch volunteers. In total we had over 1600 visitors who consumed over 4000 pints of beer and 1000 pints of cider along with traditional beer festival food.

Everyone I spoke to was captivated by their visit to the museum to view the “All Hail the Ale” tribute to the Three Brewers exhibition and enjoyed splendid hospitality from the staff.

The Bass Pubs Trail that ran for 6 weeks between Market Bosworth Rail Ale festival and Hinckley Beer festival was well supported and a number of entrants had enjoyed travelling to most of the 15 participating pubs in the area, which, in their words, “ Gave us a an opportunity to visit some of the villages around the area.”

The entertainment in the marquee was well received and the opening ceremony with distinguished guests was especially well attended.

Our judging of East Midlands Champion Beer of Britain – Strong Bitters category was won by Blue Monkey Ape Ale a 5.4% strong bitter.

Personally, I received several favourable comments about the organisation of the festival and the varied selection of beers and ciders.

It now seems a long time to wait until Hinckley and Bosworth CAMRA’s next festival, the Market Bosworth Rail Ale festival in July 2018.

Chris James, Hinckley Beer Festival Organiser

For more information on the 2017 Hinckley Beer Festival, see Hinckley Beer Festival

The Black Horse in Sheepy Magna has new leaseholders, Paul Harris & Dean Painter, who were formerly at the Crows Nest in Nuneaton. The current beers are Pedigree, Hobgoblin and one guest. Food is served daily. New pumps and cooling were installed in October and they plan to have a more varied range of guest beers including from Burton Bridge. They also have plans to extend the patio area and convert an outbuilding next spring.

The Red Lion, Barwell has had several temporary managers over the last year, but finally a permanent replacement arrived in 11 September. Paul Casey is originally from this area and has previously run pubs in Hinckley and most recently in Dorset. Food is served Tuesday to Saturday, and a roast on Sunday lunchtimes. The regular beers are Pedigree and Marston’s Saddle Tank plus a guest beer, and a real cider (currently Rosie Pig).

The Railway closed for a week in October for refurbishment of both bars and the kitchen area. The entrance lobby has been opened up and a new fireplace installed in the bar.<

The Lime Kilns has renovated and restored the downstairs room with a wood burner stove and country style armchairs and 3 piece suite. The new room will be dog friendly and will have food service.

Wood Farm Brewery in Willey reopened on 4 November as The Barn Pub and Restaurant. Owned by brothers Mark and Thomas O'Neill. Thomas also owns the Blue Bear in Nuneaton. They will also have a 5 barrel brewing plant set up by Kevin from the Pig in Muck.

The Cross Keys, Burbage closed suddenly Sunday 6 August and the lease was put up for sale by Marston’s. It was reopened on 13 September by Daniel Keicher and David Leith, who also run several pubs in the south west, and the pub manager Darren Ryn. The pub had been freshened up with a change of decor and the sports TV in the back room. Food is being served every day. The 6 hand pumps are all in use with 1 real cider, 1 guest beer and 4 regular beers (Pedigree, Saddle Tank, Hobgoblin and Wainwright). They plan to hold beer festivals in February and August.

Many thanks to pubs officer Jackie for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Jackie on:- ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

• Demolition has started at The Clarendon. Last week the front bar area had gone.
  
  
• Another planning application has been submitted for the Red Lion at Pinwall. This time to convert the pub into a house and put 4 new houses on the site of the outbuildings. It closed as a pub in 2012.
  
  
• In mid November the former Praha bar reopened as Italian restaurant bar, called Inferno
  
  
• Voodoo Lounge seems to have reopened as the Ice Bar and Quartz Nightclub, with opening times of Friday & Saturday 9pm till 3-4am.
  

• The Bulls Head, Stoney Stanton has recently been sold to someone who owns several other pubs, and who is also involved with Elmesthorpe Brewery.

  According to its Facebook page the brewery opened in June 2017 and currently sells its 3 beers at the Clifton Inn, Rugby.
  

• The manager at the Cross Keys in Burbage, (Darren Ryn) left on 8 November; there has been no replacement yet.
  
  
• The Lime Kilns is now officially a brewpub and the downstairs room is open for use.
  
  
• The Chequers in Burbage closed on 23 October for alterations and was relaunched last Saturday 2 December with new kitchen, cellar and extended restaurant.
  
  
• The Red Lion in Sapcote closed on 25 November and is due to re-open on Friday 8 December after a refurbishment which includes a new serving area and bar, new seating in the bar and lounge, new flooring throughout, an overhaul of the toilets, a new kitchen, and new paving, seating and heaters in the garden area.
  
  
• The Three Pots is going to be rebranded by M&B from a Harvester to a “Miller & Carter Steakhouse”.
  
  
• The Longshoot was closed for 3 weeks in November while Greene King altered and rebranded it as a “Pub & Carvery”.
  
  
• Steamin’ Billy opened a new pub on 26 October. The White Horse on Long Street, Atherstone and is being run by Chris Allingham who used to have the Railway.
  
  
• Some of you may have seen in the Hinckley Times that The Baron has been given a Platinum Loo of The Year award for the quality of its toilets. Platinum is the highest award category.
  
  
• As part of the Leicester Comedy Festival there is an Everards Comedy Beer Tour on 17 February 2018. Starting from Glenfield and visiting 5 pubs including the Elephant & Castle, Thurlaston and the Swan in Newbold Verdon.
  

• From Les: The Kismet Indian Restaurant in Barlestone has been converted back into the Red Lion pub.

Many thanks to our newly appointed pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:- ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

• Ashby Road Sports Club is no longer offering a CAMRA discount
  
  
• The Hollybush, Hinckley is subject to a change of use to offices and a flat
  
  
• An application has been made to convert the Red Lion Pinwall into a new home and four other dwellings
  
  
• The Union Inn, Hinckley has a refurbished beer garden, new plants, benches and a covered seating area. An all day pup grub and a carvery is also planned
  
  
• Praha in Hinckley has now become the Inferno restaurant
  
  
• The Clarendon Club, Hinckley has now been demolished after the fire they had in February
  
  
• The Harvester is still the Harvester and yet to be rebranded as a Miller & Carter steakhouse
  
  
• The Cross Keys, Burbage has closed. The landlord thanked everyone for their support but says unfortunately they have to close. Marston’s are looking for a new tenant
  
  
  

Many thanks to our newly appointed pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

The February - April version of the Half Pint is now available in a pub/club near you. This quarter's edition includes an update on the visit to the Manchester Beer Festival, details of the Rising Sun's 30th anniversary along with a history of the family's ownership of this Shackerstone pub. There is also an excellent article written by the Branch Chairman David Finn, on the Kentish home of the micro-pub. Within the pages, you will also find both the latest Local and National news.

As alway, thanks go to David & Dianne Bates who have edited this edition.

Following an election amongst Branch members, the following awards were announced at the March Meeting:-

	PUB OF THE YEAR Elbow Cask & Craft
	CIDER PUB OF THE YEAR Pestle & Mortar
	CLUB OF THE YEAR Burbage & District Constitutional Club

The Prince of Wales has a new licensee, Jackie who was previously at the Chequers, with the pub no longer being tied to XT

The Belper Arms, which was a Punch Tavern has now been transferred to Heineken, with the food menu changing at the same time

The Union is being painted outside

Just outside our area, the Black Horse at Walcote is having a beer festival from 4th to 7th May, with beers, ciders, food and live music on the Friday

The Red Lion in Earl Shilton is still closed, and the landlord is reported to have left

The King William in Earl Shilton is unlikely to ever re-open as a pub and is probably going to disappear

The Star in Stoney Stanton had a new licensee 2 weeks ago

The Stoneycroft Club has been redecorated

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

The award for branch Pub of the Year 2018 was presented by the Chairman David Finn to Tim Arnold of The Elbow Room Ale & Cider House. Congratulations!

Photo courtesy of Alan Cooke

The long-term tenant at The Blacksmiths , Barwell has left. There's a temp in at the moment and it is expected that someone is to take the place over shortly, on a permanent basis

Angie at The Weavers is now free of tie with Marston’s and is apparently the only pub in Hinckley to be in this situation. This means that they now just rent the building from Marston’s and can source beer etc from elsewhere

The Nags Head, Stapleton is still closed. Both directors, Jason Sealey and Mark John Horner of the company running the pub resigned in March 2018

There are plans to demolish The Prince of Wales, Hinckley and build 12 apartments. The council Conservation officer (Paul Grundy) along with CAMRA are objecting to this. The landlady, Jackie, believes that the pub is a viable business

The Red Lion, Earl Shilton is still closed

Golden Duck Brewery are opening a cellar bar at The Sir John Moore Foundation school next door

The Ashby Tavern has a “to let” sign. The lease is for sale for £35,000, if it is not let then a manager will be put in

The Black Horse at Sheepy Magna is also trying to become free of tie.

The Bulls Head, Nailstone is due to get a new landlady at the end of July

John and Sue from the Pestle & Mortar are taking on The Bank in Earl Shilton and will open it as a micropub called Shilton Vaults in August. The Bank has been closed for about a month.

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

Jim Bartlette, licensee of the Bulls Head in Nailstone is retiring at the end of July, and David Finn as Chairman of Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA presented Jim with an award in recognition of his eighteen years at the pub.

This was Jim’s first and only pub and followed forty years working in accountancy.

In the early days of the Branch, some of the monthly meetings were held at the pub, when attendances were then only around twelve to fifteen members. Jim was also one of the first landlords to advertise in our magazine, the Half Pint, when it began publication and he remained a loyal contributor until very recently.

Very best wishes for the future from Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA

Photo courtesy of Alan Cooke

The Cross Keys, Burbage has advertised for a new manager and it is still closed at the moment

There is a new landlady at Holywell, Charlotte Ellis, she has 2 regular cask ales Doombar and Jennings Cumberland, with 1 guest ale every week

The Pestle and Mortar , Hinckley, is to celebrate its 3rd anniversary at the Bank Holiday weekend

The Shilton Vaults is to open at the end of August or early September

The Chequers Inn, Burbage, has a new chef

The Landlady at the Belper Arms is to leave by October. Heineken fixed the flood in the cellar, but the cause is still a mystery. It re-opened in early June

The Nags Head in Stapleton will be re-opening soon

Jim at the Bulls Head, Nailstone retired on 31 July so there is a new Landlady there now

The Elbow Room in Hinckley, the Needle and Pin in Loughborough and the Classroom in Leicester have got together to organise a tour round the respective micropubs on 22 October at £20 per head with 2.5 hours in each pub with food included. This will include a free first drink in each pub too!

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

Black Horse, Hinckley The pub has a new deal with Marston's.
It includes a partial renovation and cheaper beer.
Some beers will sell at £2.60 a pint.

Nags Head, Stapleton It reopened on 19th August.
The new tenant's name is Jane Elton.
Jane is from Hinckley and this is her first time running a pub.
Both the Saddle Tank and Pedigree are £3.20 a pint.
At the moment, they are the only ales on sale
Basic food menu at sensible prices - new large kitchen
Still settling in. They haven't got their ‘phone line sorted yet so no WiFi, card machines etc.

The White Swan, Stoke Golding Has a change of landlord from Monday 3rd September.
The new tenants are Andy and Deb.

The Red lion, Earl Shilton Is displaying a 'To Let' sign.
The lease appears to have been sold and the pub could be under new management late next month.

The Ashby Tavern is still displaying a "To Let" sign.

The Holywell is still displaying a “To Let” sign

The Prince of Wales Planning permission for demolition and rebuilding as flats, has been refused.

The Cross Keys in Burbage is due to reopen this week providing Marston’s have completed the planned work. Eoin will be the new manager.

The Shilton Vaults is due to open this month.

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

The Shilton Vaults of Earl Shilton, opened it's doors for the first time on Saturday 29th September and is now the third micropub to be established within the Hinckley & Bosworth area. The micropub has been converted from the former NatWest Bank in the centre of Earl Shilton and is a sister pub to the Pestle & Mortar in Hinckley. There are three rooms, consisting of a main bar, a centre room and one in the original bank vault. There are up to 9 real ales along with craft lagers, 8 traditional ciders and a selection of wines and gins.

A very successful, first ever Quiz Night was held at The Greyhound on Wednesday 10th October. The event was organised by our Young Member Contact; Jodie Smith, with team "Camra Obscura" taking the winners prize. There were some restrained calls of "Fix", as the winning team included our Chairman, David! However everything was above board really, and all of the teams entered into the spirit of this social event. Hopefully there will be more to come in the future. Thanks very much Jodie, for all of your hard work in organising this very enjoyable evening.

At our AGM on Tuesday 13th November, the Regional Director Carl Brett presented the CAMRA EM Club of the Year Award to Claire Jones on behalf of the Burbage & District Constitutional Club. This was the third annual award in a row for the Club.

Photo courtesy of Alan Cooke

Steve Mustin, the Chairman of the Ashby Road Sports Club has requested a revision to the club listing (see below) along with some minor changes to the opening hours. The new Steward is Sheralee Kenney, has been appointed and CAMRA members are very welcome, as are accompanied non-CAMRA members on payment of a pound signing-in fee. The large bar area has a pool table, dart board and dominos available. There is also weekly entertainment on a Friday night within the bar area and Bingo is played every Saturday from 9pm. The Club also has a large function room which is available for hire and sits on six acres of land where our football and cricket teams play. Cask Marque beers include Doom Bar which is served all week and at least one guest beer available. The Club is easily accessible with a large car park. It is situated close to three bus routes which are 158, 48 and 10.

Revised opening hours:
Monday - 7pm to 10pm
Tuesday - CLOSED
Wednesday - 5pm to 11pm
Thursday - 5pm to 11 pm
Friday - 5pm to 11:30pm
Saturday - 12 to 11:30pm
Sunday - 12 to 11pm

The Ashby Road Sports Club has been both a previous branch Club of the Year and a Good Beer Guide featured club.

The Annual pub games trophy match between Hinckley & Bosworth and Nuneaton & Bedworth CAMRA was held at The Rose Inn, Nuneaton on 22nd January. The games consisted of pool, darts, dominoes etc. After being on the losing side for the last two years Hinckley & Bosworth won the cup back. The photo is of Ray Buckler, Nuneaton CAMRA, handing the trophy over to Norman Hall.

Big thanks to Nuneaton & Bedworth CAMRA for hosting this year's Challenge Cup.

The Belper Arms in Newton Burgoland is still closed while Heineken find a new landlord.

The Chequers in Burbage reopened 8 February with a relief manager. The new landlords are said to be Dave and Sue from the Red Lion.

Elmesthorpe brewery have withdrawn their interest in acquiring the Oddfellows at Higham. The villagers had a meeting to discuss buying the pub. They know that the owner has already turned down an offer for it and hope that H&BBC will refuse the change of use as it is the last pub in the village.

The Baron of Hinckley will close in September and you have probably seen in the press that the site will be taken over by the Elmesthorpe Brewery. After refurbishment, it will re-open with a new range of beers. There is no further information about Wetherspoons moving to other premises in Hinckley.

Ade Lucas at the Cross Keys, Barwell was due to leave at the end of March and is giving up the pub trade. There should be a replacement licensee, Jess, who was due to take over on the 1 April.

The Dog & Gun, Hinckley has closed and it is said that it will reopen under new management, following refurbishment.

The lease for the Three Tuns in Barlestone has been renegotiated.

Also Burbage Community Arts Festival will be holding its usual "Music in the Pubs" night around Burbage on Wednesday 8 May. www.bcaf.net

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

Sue Summerill of the Pestle & Mortar receiving both the Pub of the Year Award and the Cider Pub of the Year Award for 2019. The presentations were made by David Finn, Chairman and Alban Fellows, Cider Officer at the Pestle & Mortar on 2nd May.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the Pestle & Mortar has been awarded Cider Pub of the Year and the first time it has been given the Pub of the Year award. It is also the first time that a pub within this branch has held both awards for the same year. Congratulations.

Photos courtesy of Alan Cooke

Voting for our Country Pub of the Year 2019 is now open, with details shown on the downloadable form below. There are 10 country pubs to choose from with all six guidelines, as indicated, being important but Beer/Cider Quality and Community Focus carry most weight.

Country Pub of the Year 2019 - Voting Form

The Thyme Bar and Kitchen in Market Bosworth now features a windowed beer cellar on the shop floor, and a bar with three cask lines and four keg lines. Regarded as the only true Free House in Market Bosworth, the Thyme Bar and Kitchen features a constantly changing line up of craft cask and keg beers on offer. There will always be a Church End beer available amongst the line up.

Louise and Darren Lavender being presented with an award from the Chairman David Finn, in recognition of their 10 year tenure at the New Plough Inn, Hinckley. Congratulations to Louise and Darren for providing excellent beers and for their much appreciated support for the CAMRA Branch.

The Belper Arms, Newtown Burgoland, reopened on 1st July as a food led Heineken pub with a pizza oven. Heineken wanted them to have 6 beers; at the moment they have 3.

The Black Horse, Appleby Magna, closed again on 15 th July, but reopened after 5 days with only one beer.

The Crafty Elbow, 83-103 Church Street, Burbage, change of use – planning had been deferred, with 52 letters of support and 12 objections received by 12th July. Subsequently, planning permission has been refused.

34 Windsor Street, Burbage, closed on 15th June 2017. Partial demolition proposed, with change of use to 2 dwellings plus 4 more dwellings to the rear, with 12 parking spaces..

The lease of the Red Lion, Sapcote is currently being advertised on Marston’s web site.

The Elbow Room have a Tiny Rebel Tap take over on 14/15 September

The Black Horse, Bond Street has a sign up saying it is to let and may be closed as the licensees may have already left.

The Wentworth closes for refurbishment on the 30th September and reopens on 10th October.

The Baron will be closed by Wetherspoons on 22 September. Elmesthorpe Brewery get the keys and expect to reopen it soon after. They have brewed 2 new beers: Baron Best Bitter & Hinca Ale.

Many thanks to our pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

An Ada Lovelace beer brewed by Castle Brewery will be available at The Greyhound and Pestle and Mortar later this week. This is part of the celebration of the life of Ada Lovelace, daughter of English poet Lord Byron who spent her childhood years at Kirkby Mallory, Hinckley, where she was encouraged to develop a love of science and mathematics.

Ada is considered to be one of the first computer programmers, following her work with Charles Babbage's Difference Engine, which is a calculating machine requiring a written program to carry out complex calculations.

The Chairman; David Finn, the Secretary; Richard Lewin and the Treasurer; Bethan Moore are all retiring at the AGM on 12th November, after up to 15 years serving the Branch.

There are other officials stepping down at the same time after varying lengths of service.

During this 15 year era, the CAMRA Branch has operated around 20 beer festivals in Hinckley and Market Bosworth. Around 86 pubs and clubs and six local breweries have benefited from support and encouragement.

The Wentworth Arms reopened on 11 October after extensive refurbishment by pub owners Greene King. They are now serving 5 real ales – Greene King IPA, Abbot and 3 guests.

At the Sycamores, there have been changes to the food provided. Restaurant Twenty-Six finished on 1 August, they were replaced by the Sycamores Kitchen and from 20 October two chefs who had previously worked for Restaurant Twenty-Six, have returned and there is now a new menu.

After repairs and refurbishment, the New Baron of Hinckley reopened 20 October. The New Baron is still a free house which serves Elmesthorpe beers, guest beers, and reasonably priced food.

Andy suddenly ended the temporary lease agreement at The Belper Arms and having decided not to take on the long-term lease, he left on 9 October.

As reported earlier, the Cock Inn at Sibson closed suddenly on 13 November. A note pinned to the door said that Lee, Trudi and David had ceased trading and left after 13 years.

The Holywell was closed for around a month and seems to have reopened Friday 22 November. The lease sign is still being displayed.

The Dog & Gun, Hinckley is still closed.

The Black Horse, Bond Street has a to let sign displayed.

The Red Lion in Sapcote has a to let sign displayed.

Many thanks to our acting pubs officer Adrian for the update. Note: If anyone has pub or club news that may be of interest to the Branch, please contact Adrian on:-
ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@reciffosbup or 01455 610932

The Chequers in Burbage has been painted outside and its Sunday lunches are proving popular.

In November, Cliff Morgan left The Red Lion in Sapcote after many years in charge. The new landlords, Lewis and Wayne, took over on 9 December 2019. They are currently refurbishing the 3 letting rooms, the bars were refurbished around a year ago. There are three beers: Pedigree, Ringwood’s Boon Doggle and a guest from the Marston’s list.

The Black Horse on Bond Street, Hinckley re-opened on 12 January with a new landlady, who was previously at the Tin Hat in Hinckley. Pork & Stuffing cobs etc are available.

The front bar at Ashby Road Sports Club has been refurbished.

The Flintlock now does 10% off real ales on production of Camra card, and has 1 real cider.

News has reached the branch, that Market Bosworth Brewery has suspended production.

Due to the impact of Covid-19, the Battlefield Line and Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA feel that they have no alternative, but to postpone the Rail Ale Festival until 2021. This is an extremely disappointing decision, but the Battlefield Line and the CAMRA branch believe this is right and responsible.

However, the Battlefield Line still has standing costs to service including those for the rail ale site at Market Bosworth. If you would like to assist them by making a donation and help ensure rail ale returns - please go to https://www.battlefieldline.co.uk/

A note from our Festival Organiser

This year’s Market Bosworth Rail Ale Festival has now been officially cancelled. This follows the guidance from the government, and also from CAMRA that all beer festivals nationwide are cancelled until at least August and probably beyond. Without other guidelines to follow, we have to assume that some form of social distancing will still be required for many months.

The festival depends on many people coming together, in close proximity to one another, in a social and enjoyable environment. It would be virtually impossible for the volunteer staff to observe the increased standards of hygiene and security that are essential to maintain a safe environment. We know how disappointed you will be at this decision, but the priority has to be to take the correct decision now to ensure that all of you will be fit and well and able to attend the 2021 Festival. Thanks to all of the Camra and Battlefield Line volunteers who helped with the planning, and to those intending to volunteer or visit the festival.

Jackie

A message and update from Chris Merriman, Pubs Protection Officer, regarding the Prince of Wales Planning Application:-

You may recall that this planning application was refused by the Borough Council at the beginning of November last year and I reported the fact to a Branch meeting, pointing out the applicant has the right to appeal the Council's decision to the Secretary of State within 6 months of the decision date.

I have now been notified by the Borough Council that an appeal has been lodged ( 3 days before the deadline!) and inviting any further comments to be addressed to the Government Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State. Any objections to the original planning application will be forwarded to the Inspector and taken into account in his/her deliberations, but I shall, on behalf of the Branch, be making further representations and any other members who wish to do the same should do so through the Appeals Casework Portal at https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk or by emailing ku.vog.etarotcepsnigninnalp@1tsae

Appeal documents are available forinspection on the Borough Council's website using the link hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/online-applications and entering 19/00892/OUT into the search box. All representations to the Planning Inspectorate must be received by 9th July 2020.

Members are urged to voice their objections to the loss of this important community pub so that the Inspector is in no doubt that he/she should reject the appeal.

Chris Merriman
Pubs Protection Officer

The local action group, The Oddies, have thanked the nearly 100 objectors to the recent planning application, which hopefully, included many of our members. They feel this was instrumental in the applicants, Cartwright Homes, withdrawing the application before determination and has prompted the company to ask the community if they were still interested in the pub.

With this in mind it is hoped to create a Community Benefit Society with share options available to purchase, which would allow the group to show the level of support they have when progressing the bid and seeking funding from other sources.

Contributions are still being welcomed to help with fees and other costs via a 'GoFundMe' page, https://www.gofundme.com/f/to-reopen-the-oddfellows-higham-on-the-hill Any communications with the local group can be made to moc.liamg@seiddoeht.yraterces

Chris Merriman - Pubs Protection Officer

Darren and Loiuse Lavender have decided to rebrand Elliswood Brewery as New Buildings Brewery and have introduced a new range of real ales as part of the process. See Local Breweries

Following on from the news published earlier on 20th June, it has been advised that the "Oddies" campaign Group made an offer to Cartwright Homes, to buy the Oddfellows Arms, but this was rejected. Negotiations are now continuing, but housing development is still a possibility as indicated by a leaflet drop suggesting a revised planning application is being prepared.

See https://savetheoddiespub.wixsite.com/stop/blog for the latest information regarding the campaign.

Update provided by Darren Statham

Gwilym's message:-

"I know that it’s been a while, but there’s not been a lot to talk to you about thanks to the lockdown.

I am sending this message in the hope that it will trigger a favourable response to the request for a new Secretary as Kelvyn is unable to continue in his role beyond the end of February. I have asked for a volunteer before, but I’ve had no response.

I also regret to inform you all that I will be stepping down from my role as Chairman in a similar timeframe.

If you know someone who is willing to take on either of these duties, please contact me on ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@namriahc so we can arrange a timely handover after an online AGM vote to confirm the positions.

I completely understand that these are trying times and there is a great deal of uncertainty about the future, but if there is no response by the 21st of February, I will notify CAMRA head office to begin the process of winding down the branch.

If you know any branch members who do not get the branch mailouts, please pass on the message as without a new Chair or Secretary, we will be folded back into the Leicester branch and we would lose most of our Good Beer Guide entries. I feel that would be a big loss for the area.

Thank you all for the time you have given to the branch."

Kindest Regards,
Gwilym Smith

Outgoing Chairman, Hinckley and Bosworth CAMRA

Website Coordinator note: Shawn Collier, the Chair of the Leicester CAMRA branch has also indicated his intention to stand down, at their next AGM

Sadly our member Paul Green passed away on 2nd March. Paul was a good branch member who attended a lot of meetings, beer festivals and supported our local pubs and clubs.

Our thoughts are with Paul's family.

It was agreed between Jackie Wallis, our beer festival organiser and Adrian Lock of the Battlefield Line, that under the current circumstances it would be best if the Rail Ale Festival was postponed again, until July 2022.

The lock down relaxation dates in the Government Road Map mean that it is not really feasible to plan a festival, as the May 17th rules for indoor venues are still too restrictive with social distancing, half capacity and table service. The festival depends on many people coming together, in close proximity to one another, in a social and enjoyable environment. It would be virtually impossible for the volunteer staff to observe the increased standards of hygiene and security that are essential to maintain a safe environment.

Here's to next year, and a successful festival.

There is no food service and opening times have been limited at the White Swan, Stoke Golding as the chef has moved to pastures new.

   

The Elephant and Castle in Thurlaston and the New Inn, Enderby are working in partnership to hold a two site beer festival from Friday 23 rd July – Sunday 25 th July. As well as over 20 different beers across both sites there will be FREE transport provided between the two pubs on Friday evening and Saturday (all day). Different “pop-up” food will be available with selections at each site with food pairing notes and well as tasting notes for the beers on offer. Further details to be announced on their respective webpages:

https://www.elephantandcastlethurlaston.co.uk

https://www.facebook.com/thenewinnenderby/

Public transport to Enderby is possible by catching the 158 into Leicester and then changing over to arriva service 50. Alternatively, the X55 goes from Hinckley to Thurlaston and Enderby via Burbage, Sapcote, Sharnford and Stoney Stanton. See bus timetables below:-

https://www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/supported-bus-services-timetables/

The Queens Head re-opened on 21st July following the lockdown period, during which refurbishment has been carried out, including turning the front room into a snug.

A reminder that the Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA branch walkabout takes place tonight (6th August).

The start is at the Queens Head (Upper Bond Street) from 5pm. It is cash only in the Queens Head.

Just to confirm the list of pubs we will be visiting for the walkabout will be the following in order of attendance:

1) Queens Head
2) New Plough Inn

Beer list: Marston's Pedigree (4.5%), Directors (4.8%), 61 Deep (3.8%), Hobgoblin Gold (4.2%), Reverend James (4.5%), Brains SA Gold (4.3%)

3) Greyhound

Beer list: Marston's Pedigree (4.5%), Bass (4.1%), Market Bosworth Marmalade IPA (4.2%), New Buildings Brewery - Test House (4.1%)

3) Pestle & Mortar
4) Elbow Room
5) The Railway

The Golden Duck Tap at Appleby Magna is holding a mini beer festival tonight (27th August), with a range of ales and accompanying live music.

Sadly our member Tony Ashley passed away on 7 August 2021. Tony was a long time branch member attending many meetings and beer festivals. He was regularly seen in the Elbow Room where a commemorative tankard has been displayed.

The Funeral Notice is: Tony ASHLEY passed away at Leicester Royal Infirmary on 7th August 2021, aged 79. Widower of Sheila and lovingly remembered by his son Stephen, daughter Karen, brother, grandchildren and extended family. He lived his life to the fullest, Morris dancing and enjoying real ale. Originally from Bolton, he worked as a radiographer and hospital manager at Walsgrave Hospital. The funeral will take place at Markfield Natural Burial Ground on 3rd September 2021 at 11 a.m.

Tim Martin, the boss of Wetherspoons has indicated that he is on the "look out" for new premises in Hinckley, following the closure of The Baron in 2019. This was subsequently replaced by the New Baron, run by Nirad Solanki of Elmesthorpe Brewery.

The Princes Feathers have re-opened after a 10k refurbishment.

Prince of Wales changed name to The Last Roadhouse June 2020

Royal Arms Sutton Cheney. The owners have applied for planning permission to convert the buildings into 9 new homes, a community building, green open space, retaining the pub under it's former name of The Greyhound Inn

As of 17th June 2020, the Red Lion Sapcote has new landlords Alex and Whitney

The Dog & Gun Earl Shilton has new landlords from August 2020.

The Boot Inn Ibstock has new landlords from October 2020.

The Nags Head Stapleton has new tenants JP and Sam from November 2020.

The Barwell Sports Bar - The Barn Barwell closed January 2021 due to Covid pandemic, has reopened with new landlords March 2021.

The Holywell Inn Hinckley has new landlords from 25 June 2021, after Hawthorn Leisure removed previous tenants on 13 May.

The Princes Feathers Hinckley changed hands in July 2021 following major refurbishment inside and out. They now have 2 cask ales.

The Thyme Bar & Kitchen Market Bosworth does not appear to be reopening after lock down

The Bulls Head Nailstone closed due to Covid-19 lockdown. Landlords due to leave July 2020, new landlords awaited

The Oddfellows Arms Higham on the Hill closed mid August 2018 when the landlord left. Single room village pub, with large separate dining room. Subject to contested planning permission for housing.

The Dog & Gun Hinckley is currently closed

Lee and Trudi left the Cock Inn Sibson on 13th November 2019. New landlords are awaited with the owners planning a major refurbishment.

The Four Corners Barwell (Formerly Topps) closed on 1st January 2020.

GUESS THE PUB AND WIN A PINT!

This picture hangs in a pub within the Branch. The first person to name that pub correctly can claim a pint from the Chair at an upcoming branch meeting or event. Contact Darren, by e-mail at:- ku.gro.armac.htrowsobdnayelkcnih@namriahc

This quiz is open to Branch Members only

Gareth from the Bird in Hand, Austrey got in touch to say that in July, the pub became free of tie and up to October he has had over 40 different beers from 15 different breweries. He would love to see us there.

The White Swan in Stoke Golding had new tenants in early October. They should be there at least until the planning application is resolved and currently have Tiger, plus 1 guest but are hoping to add a 3rd beer. No food at the moment. Open Thursday to Sunday.

There is a new landlord at the Railway; open from Wednesday to Sunday. Adam Crump has moved on to another Steamin Billy pub: the Cow & Plough in Oadby.

Feedback received from WhatPub: The Bounty has no real ale. It is not known if this is permanent. Does anyone know?

Update provided by Jackie & Adrian

The Nuneaton and Bedworth branch are holding a social event on 26th March 2022 at the Rose Inn, celebrating the 50th anniversary of CAMRA's first AGM. All Hinckley and Bosworth branch members are invited.

Hospitality, tourism, events and recreational businesses across the borough that have seen their trade hit by coronavirus may be eligible to apply for a new Extra Support Grant of up to £10,000.

The Extra Support Grant, just launched by the Borough Council, aims to provide financial support for businesses to help them meet their on-going fixed business costs whilst trade is severely impacted by customer cancellations and low customer demand as a direct result of COVID concerns.

Grant amounts are expected to be between £1,000 and £10,000, depending on business costs and the impact on the business, however the council retains discretion to award lower or higher grants as it sees fit. Funding is limited, so grants will be paid on a first come first served basis, as long as all necessary information is supplied.

Hospitality, tourism, events and recreational (including creative) businesses who have previously received a COVID support grant from the Borough Council are being contacted and invited to check if they are eligible to apply as soon as possible, however affected businesses are urged to check the criteria to see if they are eligible for a grant.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Stuart Bray said:

This discretionary grant scheme will allow us to provide much needed support for smaller businesses in the borough, who have not been eligible for other government schemes, to help protect people’s jobs for the future.

Whilst I welcome this extra funding I would urge businesses to make their application immediately as it is most likely, there will be more businesses needing support than can be provided by the allocation provided.

Applications can be made from Wednesday 5 January 2022 and the grant scheme closes at midnight on Monday 31 January 2022. Payments will be paid before mid-March 2022.

For further information and how to apply see the Hinckley & Bosworth Borough website link below:-

https://www.hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk/argextrasupport

The Gate at Ratcliffe Culey, changed hands on 30 November 2021 and is being run by Kim and Paul. The pub is open 12 to late, with food served daily from 12 to 7pm and breakfast from 9 to 11 on Saturdays and Sundays. There are 3 changing real ales available.

The Nag's Head, Stapleton has a "To Let" sign and appears to be closed currently. The pub is listed on the Admiral Taverns website.

Thank you to Jackie for providing this month's update

The Belper Arms at Newton Burgoland, regarded as the oldest pub in Leicestershire, circa 1290 is reopening this Wednesday 16th & Thursday 17th February.

The pub is opening for drinks only 4pm -10pm. The Restaurant will be opening at the weekend, and the Landlord is very keen to reintroduce the village pub as it should be, serving Cask Ale & Good Pub Food

All CAMRA members are invited to The Rose Inn in Nuneaton to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the organisation’s very first national Annual General Meeting of the Nuneaton CAMRA Branch. Barry Everitt, Chair of the Nuneaton and Bedworth CAMRA branch said, “We hope local CAMRA members will be able to join us and celebrate this historic anniversary at one of our branch’s local pubs. To boast such a historic connection to the founding of CAMRA is quite an achievement with so many pubs under threat of closure. We hope the Rose Inn can continue to host CAMRA meetings for another 50 years to come.” The event will be held: on Saturday 26th March starting at around 12:00 noon at the Rose Inn, Coton Road, Nuneaton. The pub crawl afterwards, will include the Lord Hop, Wetherspoons, Blue Bear, Silk Mill and Black Swan in Hand. To celebrate, CAMRA members from across the West Midlands will descend onto the pub 50 years to the day for a social event on 26 March 2022, raising a glass to CAMRA’s four founders and the pub which helped make history happen. The Rose Inn hosted founding members including Bill Mellor, Graham Lees, Michael Hardman and Jim Makin on 26 March 1972, when a historic meeting cemented the future of the Campaigning organisation. The pub was previously presented with a bronze plaque to commemorate its role in hosting CAMRA’s first ever AGM. It was also nominated by the community as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) in 2017 and was tastefully refurbished in 2021, retaining most of its original character.

Jackie Wallis reported that Dawn and Phil Jackson have now retired but retain ownership of the Queens Head in Hinckley and handed over the management to new landlords – Sue and Dave.

Becky left the Flintlock in Hinckley on 27th February to manage a pub in Northamptonshire.

The developers planning application for the White Swan in Stoke Golding has been rejected by the Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council.

The Nags Head in Stapleton has the windows boarded up. Chris Merriman advised that developers might sometimes have “security” move into empty pub premises as a ploy to say the building has been occupied as a residence. If occupied as a residence or 4 years a pub may lose its planning status. Any evidence of occupation of a closed pub should be reported to the Local Planning Authority.

Chris James has provided confirmation that the Burbage and District Constitutional Club welcomes CAMRA members. For access, the advice is to ring the outside door bell and the door will be unlocked from behind the bar. If staff are busy there may be a short delay. Be prepared to show your CAMRA membership card at the bar. If you are intending to visit twice a week, every week, it would be appreciated if you would join as a member of the club! The new Steward, Thomas is concentrating on LocAles.

Steve Barker has advised that Darren Lavender of New Buildings Brewery has bought some equipment from the closed Bosworth Brewery and is looking to brew some of the old Bosworth recipes. Marmalade IPA will be produced but marketed under a different name.

New Buildings Windmill best bitter is being served at the New Plough Inn

Alban Fellows has advised that Sue and John Summerill of the Pestle & Mortar have made a trip to the south of England and returned with a van full on new real Ciders, to be on available over the next few weeks.

The White Swan, Stoke Golding is now also open on a Tuesday and Wednesday. Cask ale night is on Wednesday and is £2.90/pint.

The Queens Head, Upper Bond Street has a new licencee called Sam who used to work at the Dog & Hedgehog in Daddlington. It is intended that the Queen's Head will be accepting card payments in the near future.

The Dog & Gun, Earl Shilton has new tenants and on Wednesdays beer is £2.50 a pint.



The Dixie Arms, Market Bosworth featured in an episode of Channel 4's "Four in a bed". A show that features four B&B owners who stay at each other’s premises through the week, with the best host chosen by the contestants after all stays have been completed. Licencee Alex McDonald wowed the other competitors with her passion for her pub, where she has worked for more than 15 years, becoming the manager and eventually buying the venture from the previous owners in 2012. The Dixie Arms went on to win the competition. The episode can be watched by clicking the link below:
https://www.channel4.com/programmes/four-in-a-bed/on-demand/69775-072

The Shilton Vaults held an inaugural charity pub quiz, supported by CAMRA members. The event was a success, with plenty of banter between the teams whilst raising over £100 in the process, which is to be donated in support of the victims of the war in Ukraine. It is hoped that Sue will be able to host a similar event in future!

The Red Lion, Barwell had a new temporary landlord at the beginning of March.

The Red Lion, Barlestone is still closed. The car park is now coned off and it has a "To Let" sign outside.

The Bulls Head, Nailstone has been closed since lockdown in March 2020, however fresh plans have been submitted to renovate it by replacing the front entrance, front windows and roof rafters, and to create a two-storey extension to the rear with a new private entrance and stairwell for the upstairs accommodation.

The 2022 Cider Pub of the Year Award was presented by our Cider Officer Alban Fellows, to Sue Summerill of the Pestle & Mortar on Monday 17th May. This is the 6th year in succession that the award has been presented to Sue at the "Pestle", since it was inaugurated in 2016. The Pestle & Mortar was also the East Midlands Cider Pub of the Year in 2016 and the Pub of the Year in 2019.

This extremely popular micro pub regularly features over 15 ciders along with a large selection of cask ales and craft lagers.

images courtesy of Mike Broadhurst

George and Dragon - Stoke Golding

Alex has been running the George and Dragon for 8 years during which time she now has a 2½ year old child. Life is all about balancing managing the pub, her working week (banking, cashing up, cleaning, gardening, kitchen, relief chef etc) and bringing up a child in a working environment. The George and Dragon is owned by Church End Brewery. Alex has a very close relationship with the Church End Brewery Family Team of Stewart, Rosemary and Katie Elliott.

Prior to joining Church End Brewery Alex managed the Cottage in Fillongley operated by Enterprise Taverns – which was a very different experience being in a tied public house. Alex was invited to join Church End by her old school friend Katie Elliott. Alex already had connections with Stoke Golding through her grandparents living in the village, and had been a regular of the George and Dragon prior to Church End acquisition.

Alex related her experiences during the uncertainty of COVID lockdowns. During the first and second lockdowns the George and Dragon was able to provide take away beer and food to support her locals. It was over the Christmas lockdown they were only allowed to supply takeaway meals to pre booked time slots – but no beer!

When reopening in April the outside marquee and garden proved a great success in helping to build up the business with the support of the locals, all helped by food offering and new summer beers.

Question: What changes have been seen post COVID? April opening was very nervous. The outside space proved very popular. Reflecting the new economic conditions customers were staying for 1 or 2 drinks where previously maybe 3 or 4.

Question: Compare working for a PubCo (Enterprise Taverns) vs. Church End? The Cottage was rented from the PubCo and was tied to their drinks supply – at prices above the free distributors. Church End own the George and Dragon and it is a free house with no brewery ties. The Church End Beers are very popular and there is always a good selection available. Alex is free to source guest beers. Alex has a very close relationship with the Church End Brewery Family Team of Stewart, Rosemary and Katie Elliott.

Question: Which are the most popular beers? Presently the summer ales have proved popular. Overall Goats Milk and Fallen Angel are always in demand.

Question:What are your Food Offerings? The George and Dragon provides a lunch menu Tuesday to Saturday with monthly Steak Nights and Sunday Lunch. During evening customers are invited to bring their own buffet – especially on quiz nights. Alex has introduced “Pop-up Restaurant” nights – inviting food vans to the garden area twice a month. These included Greek, BBQ, burgers, and smokehouse menus. There is a charity evening scheduled for 14 August which previously raised over £3,500. Alex thanked all of her local customers for their continuing support.

Planning permission has been granted for a new real ale bar and coffee shop in Hinckley town centre. The new bar is opening in the former Yorkshire Bank and will be called The Clarence, after the name of a former venue in an adjacent building. It is intended that The Clarence will be a coffee shop by day, and a real ale bar by night. During the day, from around 9am until 3pm, it will be a coffee shop, and then the bar will open from 4pm until close. There are also plans to add a rooftop bar next summer. The venue is due to open at the end of October.

The AGM will now be held at the Greyhound, Hinckley on Tuesday 6th December rather than at the Sapcote Club on the 1st November.

The Nags Head, Stapleton is now open and serving one cask beer. Breakfasts are currently available but the food offering will be expanded when a chef joins the pub at the end of January 2023.

Emily took over as the new manager of the Stoke Golding Club from 14th November.

The Clarence

The Clarence opened on 3rd December with the hours 8am to 4pm for café and cakes and from 2pm serving one regular ale and two changing ales. A discount of 20p per pint is being offered on production of a CAMRA card.

David and Sue are leaving the Red Lion, Burbage after 7 years. A new team is scheduled to take over.

The Baron, Hinckley is no longer serving food

The Bird in Hand Austrey

The Bird in Hand, Austrey is one of Hinckley and Bosworth Branch’s most outlying pubs and is in fact in Warwickshire. The Tamworth CAMRA Branch have approached the Committee to request the pub be returned to their branch. The Bird in Hand was originally allocated from Tamworth Branch on the formation of the Hinckley and Bosworth sub-Branch. Tamworth Branch already have other pubs in Warwickshire and are allocated nominations in the Good Beer Guide for Warwickshire pubs. The Committee recommended that the Bird in Hand be transferred to Tamworth Branch. The Members present raised no objections.

The Earl Shilton Constitutional Club, has a new Steward, Mark and the club is currently serving three cask ales: Timothy Taylor Dark, Woodford Pure Gold and Bass. There are three other cask ales conditioning in the Cellar. Mark commented that he has few visits from Hinckley and Bosworth CAMRA Members who are always welcome

Tin Hat

The Tin Hat is promoting cask ales at a very special price on Mondays. This promotion applies to all cask ales provided on Mondays with the exception of Bank Holidays. Please be aware that the offer can be withdrawn by the licensee without notice.

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.

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.

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.

Darren Statham has announced that he will not stand as Chair at the December AGM. Darren has a new job demanding increased responsibilities and travel commitments. The branch is seeking early enquires for position as Chair.

Any member who might consider taking on the role, please talk with Darren or any Committee Member. Candidates will receive the full support of all Committee Members. Early engagement will allow for any coaching, ensuring a smooth transition and handover

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!!

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.

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 current situation regarding planning activities within the Hinckley and Bosworth branch were presented by Chris Merriman, Pubs Protection Officer, to the August Branch Meeting:-

• Oddfellows Arms, Higham on the Hill Update from Kate Phillips, Secretary to “Save the Oddies” confirmed that they have not yet acquired the Pub. The £156,000 from the Government Community Ownership Fund needs to be matched with local funding. A Public Works Loan application has been pursued with the Parish Council. Shares in the pub will be offered to the local community to match the funding by the end of the summer. Negotiations are ongoing for the sale of the pub by Cartwright’s. The final planning permission for housing on the site still has to be determined.
  
  
• The Cock Inn, Sibson Listed building consent was given in December 2022. In July 2023 Heineken submitted some plan details to comply with the consent to the Local Council. Negotiations are ongoing for the work to start.
  
  
• Royal Arms, Sutton Cheyney In July planning permission was given to convert the premises into 9 residences, retaining a very small area at the front for a pub. Representations made by Chris to the Planning Authority were not included in the assessment report. Chris has raised concerns that the area allocated to the pub will later be declared by the developer as “non-viable” and seek to remove the planned pub, as was the case with the Dog & Gun in Hinckley.
  
  
• The Wharf, Hinckley There was a failure to secure a listing as a pub with historic interior, due to insufficient resources being available at English Heritage.
  
  
• White Swan, Stoke Golding The Parish Council has declined to apply for an Asset of Community Value, citing two other pubs and the club in the village. Individuals may apply for an AVC providing more than 20 residents submit the application.
  
  
• The Clarence, Hinckley Submitted an application for conversion of the roof area into a bar and five units of accommodation; some to be used as “entertainment pods”
  

• Barwell Constitutional Club Submitted an application to build four bungalows on the existing beer garden site. The Branch advises raising an objection for loss of amenity.
  
  

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 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.

Olde Red Lion - Market Bosworth

Tom Roberts and Jo Hankins have taken over the Olde Red Lion at Market Bosworth. There are three regular beers including Wytchwood Hobgoblin Gold, Bank's Amber and Marston's Pedigree. The kitchen is undergoing refurbishment but is due to open soon.

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.

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%.

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.

The 2024 Pub of the Year award was presented to Louise and Darren at The New Plough by Dr Luke Evans MP for Bosworth. This is the third year in succession that the New Plough have achieved Pub of the Year.

Comments from Dr Luke Evans:-

“A very big well done and congratulations to THE NEW PLOUGH INN for winning Hinckley and Bosworth Camra (Campaign for Real Ale)‘s award for Pub of the Year 2024!

Louise, Darren and the team are a real credit to the community spirit we have here in Hinckley and Bosworth and it was a pleasure to present them with this award in front of a pub full of regulars who know and appreciate all the hard work that goes into running a good local pub.

Congratulations everyone - keep up the great work! “

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

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

Planning update provided by Chris Merriman

Oddfellows, Higham-on-the-Hill Hinckley & Bosworth Council have not determined the decision on approval of the latest planning application for Cartwright Homes
The Bounty, Hinckley Hinckley & Bosworth Council have not determined the decision on approval of the latest planning application
Hansom Cab, Burbage Greene King have applied to make cosmetic improvements to the exterior of the building – seen as good news that the brewery are willing to invest
Barwell Constitutional Club There has been no appeal lodged by the Management Committee of the club for the refusal of planning consent to the building of bungalows on land at the rear
Sharnford Arms It is understood that the pub was sold at auction and may become an Indian restaurant. Chris advises that the new owners would require planning permission from Blaby Council should they wish to close the premises as a pub and convert to solely a restaurant
Belper Arms, Newton Burgoland Now closed. Swepstone Parish Council have an ACV approved by NW Leicestershire Council
Dog & Hedgehog, Dadlington ACV application by Dadlington & Sutton Cheney Parish Council Elephant and Castle, Thurlaston Parish Council to re-apply for ACV as current runs out 21st August 2024

Update provided by Chris Merriman, Pubs Protection Officer

The Bounty, Hinckley: Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council have refused an application for the conversion of the upper floor to four flats. The refusal is based on grounds of substandard building standards. No grounds were sighted for loss of residential space for pub staff, however the application is likely to be approved with a corrected building design.

The Oddfellows, Higham-on-the-Hill: There has still been no decision from Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council, on the latest planning application.

The Boot Inn, Ibstock: has been closed for over four years and an application has been submitted for seven flats in two storeys on the carpark. Additionally there was an earlier application to convert the main pub building into eight flats. The Planning Officers have sighted several historic references and design features to the building. Chris will raise an objection as loss of amenity, on behalf of the Branch.

The Hansom Cab, Burbage: Greene King have had plans approved to make cosmetic improvements to the exterior of the building. This is seen as good news that the brewery are willing to invest.

Hinckley & Bosworth Council have refused ACVs on the a number of pubs in H&B CAMRA area. Chris will refer the decisions to Paul Ainsworth, CAMRA National Planning Policy Advisor and seek a meeting with H&B CAMRA Branch members and H&B Council Planning.

Current Pub Protection policies adopted by Hinckley & Boswort Borough Council in their local plan, do not offer adequate protection to “urban” pubs as Assets of Community Value (ACV). Rural Pubs have received greater protection for their communities. Chris advises that we give feedback to the consultation of the Hinckley & Bosworth New Local Plan to provide stronger safeguards.

The use of accommodation in closed pubs, such as with the Dog & Hedgehog and the Bulls Head are examples that have been raised by Chris to the Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Planning Enforcement, and is awaiting feedback.

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.

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.

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

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