you decide - JD Wetherspoon

your free magazine | Summer 2016

eu referendum special

UK EDITION

pages 4–5 and 50–62

READ BY 2 MILLION

CUSTOMERS

IN OR OUT? THE ARGUMENTS FOR AND AGAINST ARE HERE…

YOU DECIDE

BBC HARDtalk – Tim Martin taken to task by Stephen Sackur

Pictured: Andrew Quinlan of cider producer Orchard Pig harvesting apples for the Cider Festival

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EURO 2016

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FEATURES BEER GARDENS........................................................................... 10 Our beer gardens are waiting for you

TIM’S VIEWPOINT............................. 4

BESPOKE BURGERS................................................................ 12 We go to UK suppliers for just about everything under the bun

CIDER FESTIVAL........................................................................ 20 Thirty ciders sold at 17-day festival

SOCIABLE FOOD.......................................................................  23 Small-plates range suits all palates and pockets

VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN OPTIONS...............  26 Wetherspoon now offers a stand-alone menu

WHAT SUP?.....................................................................................  28

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Our festival brings 50 beers to you

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A SUMMER OF SALAD DAYS.......................................  37 Taking us back to war-time levels of sugar consumption

TASTE OF SCANDINAVIA..............................................  49 Wetherspoon’s pubs gave this Swedish pear cider its UK début

EU REFERENDUM SPECIAL.........................................  50 Whichever side you’re on, the EU debate is hotting up

CIDER-MAKER THAT KNOWS ITS APPLES.............................................................  63 The Thatcher family has been crafting its Somerset cider at Myrtle Farm since 1904

PIMM’S IS STILL A CLOSELY GUARDED SECRET ................................................................ 70

As part of the EU debate, the BBC’s Stephen Sackur took Tim Martin to task in a hard-hitting and confrontational interview on flagship current affairs programme – HARDtalk. Here is the link to the interview: www.jdwetherspoon.com/news/2016/04/hardtalk

THE REGULAR STUFF

GROWING CHOICE FOR GROWING CUSTOMERS..................................................... 73 All of our pubs offer a fantastic variety of dishes especially for children

YOUR SAY....................................................... 6 MEET THE BREWER......................... 78 COMPETITION........................................ 89 CAMRA’S BAR TALK....................... 90

PULPIT REMAINS, BUT SERMONS HAVE CEASED...............................................  76

NOW OPEN

A WARM WELCOME FOR TRAVELLERS........  82

WETHERSPOON HAS OPENED MORE NEW PUBS IN RECENT MONTHS�������������������������������������������������������� 32

Pimm’s: get your No.1 Cup from the world’s No.1 seller

Wetherspoon’s ‘congregation’ still enjoys many of the original features of this former Unitarian chapel If you’re going away, we’ll be there too

COASTAL PUBS........................................................................... 86 Wave hello to waves from host of coasts

Written and edited by Eddie Gershon, along with welcome contributions from Wetherspoon staff. Artwork by Banner Managed Communication. Proofreading by Future Perfect. Using paper from sustainable resources, this is printed in the UK. All J D Wetherspoon food and drink in this magazine is subject to local licensing restrictions and availability at participating free houses. Photography/illustration is for guidance only. J D Wetherspoon PLC reserves the right to withdraw/change offers (without notice) at any time. See main menu for additional details of our terms and conditions. Price and participation may vary per pub. Android, Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.

OUR PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES OUR PEOPLE������������������������������������������� 44 BIRTHDAYS������������������������������������������������ 38 COMMUNITY��������������������������������������������� 74

OUR CHARITY CLIC SARGENT������������������������������������� 64 www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 3

TIM’S VIEWPOINT

I’m out for democracy Will the UK be better off out of the European Union? Of course, says Tim Martin In my message below, I have tried to deal with the main points which have been raised by both sides in the great national debate about the EU. One point which has not been challenged by the IMF, the OECD, the Treasury, Goldman Sachs or any of the other organisations which favour ‘Remain’ is that democracy, prosperity and freedom are inextricably linked. The EU is fundamentally undemocratic, and that contention has not been challenged. David Cameron told us that the EU needed “fundamental reform” and many agreed. However, he achieved only token changes, but misleadingly said his renegotiations were successful. It was at this point that many open-minded people chose the ‘Leave’ option. The former governor of the Bank of England, Mervyn King, recently criticised the subsequent debate about the EU for being fought “like a PR campaign”. Modern politicians are advised by expert election ‘pollsters’ that arguments should be boiled down to a few words, which are then repeated ad nauseam by all the candidates, causing public disenchantment, but apparently winning elections. I have always felt that the public is far more intelligent than many pollsters or politicians think and believe that we are perfectly capable of taking a more analytical and intelligent approach. Economic Mr King also made the interesting point that history’s lesson is that both sides got it wrong in the 1975 referendum on the Common Market – whether we stayed or left made little economic difference, in his opinion. King’s view as to the impact of the decision in 1975 was echoed in respect of Brexit by businessman Stuart Rose, former chief executive of M&S and chairman of Britain Stronger in Europe, which advocates ‘Remain’.

In this edition of Wetherspoon News, we have included a separate section (see pages 50–62) with articles from some of the main advocates for both sides, including David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Boris Johnson. We have also included an article from the late and great Tony Benn, written for this magazine in 2001, in which he criticised the EU for its lack of democracy. I’ve told you what I think, but it’s your vote that counts.

Rose told a no-doubt-startled Times journalist (17 October 2015): “Nothing is going to happen if we come out of Europe for the first five years, probably. There will be absolutely no change.”

A perfectly accurate Guardian headline (15 April 2016), for example, said ‘George Osborne says Brexit would drive up mortgage rates’, with similar headlines in the Times and other papers.

Michael O’Leary, chief of Ryanair, a ‘Remain’ supporter, adopted a similar line in an interview with the Financial Times (24 February 2016). He said that Brexit would “not be the end of the world”. Willy Walsh (Evening Express, 26 February 2016), chief of British Airways (now called IAG), reflected O’Leary’s view, saying that Brexit would not have a “material impact” on his business.

The problem with this analysis, designed to frighten householders and businesses, is that it didn’t happen like that the last time, following the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008.

Disastrous These sensible views are disastrous for the Remain camp, of course, since they utterly contradict the Cameron/ Osborne main case – so all three appear to have been silenced. In their place, we now read gory headlines from politicians forecasting the end of civilisation as we know it, as well as a plague of locusts, if Brexit occurs. The detachment and elitism of Cameron and Osborne are demonstrated not by their education at Eton College, but by the contempt for the intelligence of the public, which is implicit in their ludicrous scare stories. The best example of grossly misleading information was a recent warning from Chancellor George Osborne. He said that, following Brexit, the economy would weaken and the pound would go down, therefore inflation would go up. As a result, interest rates and mortgage rates would go up.

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A glance around the world surely demonstrates that only democracy can deliver prosperity and freedom

Inflation Yes, the pound did go down and yes, inflation did go up. But what happened to interest rates and mortgages? They went down, George. He knows this, of course. Pants on fire, as they say… Cameron and Osborne, in their disreputable approach, have concentrated on getting the elite clubs to back them. The Treasury sounds independent, but is not – its boss is Osborne.

It has said that the average family will be about £4,000 a year worse off, if we leave the EU, by 2030, arriving at this number by forecasting a half of one per cent per annum less growth over the next 14 years. This is complete and utter fiction and is just massaging numbers to get the result the boss wants. Wrong As an example of the Treasury’s wrong predictions, it urged the UK to join the predecessor of the euro, the ERM, in the late 1980s. The ERM collapsed in chaos, with a million UK households in negative equity, and widespread bankruptcies, two years after we followed its advice. Not content, the Treasury subsequently advised that the UK should join the euro, once its five ‘tests’ were met – ‘wait and join’ as it was described. The Treasury became possibly the biggest laughing stock in financial history when one of the tests turned out to be the ‘convergence’ of the UK economy with the eurozone (stop laughing, I beg you…). As I said at the time, Port Talbot had never converged with St Albans or Germany with Greece – how could the UK converge with Portugal? I’m sorry to say that the Treasury is famous for being unable to forecast a few months ahead and is doing Osborne’s dirty work in this case. Cameron and Osborne also claim the backing of the OECD, a club for 34 countries, which is run by Osborne’s pal and receives £35 million per annum from the EU.

Twenty of the club members are in the EU – not surprising that the EU backs the UK to stay in the EU… Cameron and Osborne even persuaded the charismatic Barack Obama to chip in on their behalf. But Obama’s Brexit views are surely irrational for an American. Mega-successful America has been built on a constitution, written over two centuries ago, in which democracy is deeply enshrined. ‘No taxation without representation’ was the mantra when America claimed independence from Britain. The pillars of American democracy are an elected president and congress, the latter divided into a senate and house of representatives and a supreme court. No serious American, including Obama, would consider reducing democracy by handing over their powers to an undemocratic international organisation, which is what Obama is advocating for the UK. Unelected For the UK, the European Court is supreme and our laws cannot override its judgements. In addition, laws can only be instigated by the European Commission, whose members are unelected and cannot therefore be removed by voters. There is a European parliament, but it is not really democratic. It is remote from voters, cannot instigate legislation, and the UK, for example, has only 73 MEPs out of a total of 751. Since Americans would justifiably never accept the transfer of democratic power to an organisation like the EU, their president should not ask UK voters to do something he would never advocate for his own country. Do unto others, Barack… Obama also said that the UK would go to the “back of the queue” in negotiating a trade agreement with the US, in the event of Brexit. This illustrates an important point about international trade. The EU doesn’t have a trade agreement with the US and neither does the UK.

But that doesn’t stop Apple, Microsoft, Facebook or a thousand other companies from trading here, nor does it stop America from being our biggest export market for spirits, Rolls Royce engines and myriad other products.

The PR campaign run by Cameron and Osborne has emphasised, until now, the illogical point that the ‘Leave’ supporters can’t ‘prove’ that it will be able to negotiate a free trade agreement with our EU friends after Brexit.

At Wetherspoon, we know from our own experience that trade is worldwide and agreements with the EU are of limited value.

It’s impossible to prove the future, and the common sense of voters will see through this ruse.

Producers For example, we are, I believe, the biggest seller of wine in pubs to the UK public. EU countries France, Italy and Spain are some of the biggest wine producers in the world. Yet we buy 95% of our wine from South America, Africa, Australia and New Zealand. On many occasions, we have made serious efforts to source wine closer to home, assuming that there must be a better deal to be had, but have never been able to match the quality and price.

Trading As an illustration of how trade works in reality, at Wetherspoon, we agree on long-term trading agreements with our biggest suppliers, usually from five to 10 years. An agreement with our very biggest supplier is coming up for renewal in a few months. Can Wetherspoon prove that it will be able to negotiate an approximately equivalent agreement with that supplier in the future?

So, where are these dreadful barriers to trade which will cause the type of horrendous problems Cameron and Osborne talk about?

Of course we can’t. But common sense comes into play – we’ve been dealing with this supplier, as with most of our main suppliers, for 35 years and it would be extremely surprising if we couldn’t agree on a deal to the satisfaction of both companies.

Freedom A glance around the world surely demonstrates that only democracy can deliver prosperity and freedom.

Stronger But if we can’t agree on a deal, then we’ll find another supplier. It sounds harsh, but that’s business and that’s trade…

Compare the enormous success of the democratic USA (for all its faults) with the historic problems in South America, which did not have the advantage of the American constitution; or compare South Korea versus the North or West Germany versus East.

The UK is in an infinitely stronger position than Wetherspoon, being the fifth-biggest economy in the world.

Will the UK be better off out of the European Union? Of course. Just look at what is happening now – the EU is already removing democratic powers from member states. Just ask the Greeks or Portuguese, who have lost control of their interest rates and budgets, the main powers of any democratic country. Youth unemployment in those countries is around 50 per cent and overall unemployment is around 25 per cent.

We’re the world’s number-one buyer of Champagne, for example, and are massive buyers of French cheeses, German cars and many tens of thousands of other products. It cannot be seriously suggested that the French, Germans and others will wish to cease trading with us or will be able to afford to – especially since the EU sells twice as much to us as we sell to them. That trade imbalance puts the UK in the driving seat, as any buyer will tell you. Finally, an implausible argument of the ‘Remain’ side is that the EU helps to prevent war in Europe. This is completely untrue – democracy is the biggest protection against war.

Previous wars resulted from a lack of democracy. I personally believe that the UK could completely disarm (which I don’t advocate) and we would be under no danger whatsoever from our German or French friends, provided that they retain sufficient democratic powers. When was the last time a properly democratic country threatened war against another properly democratic country? In any event, NATO, not the EU, is the alliance created to provide collective defence, and almost no one suggests that we should leave NATO. Madness The UK public saw through the madness of the euro, in spite of its promotion by the then prime minister, the CBI, the Financial Times and most of the great and good of the UK and Europe. I believe they will see through the superficiality of the Cameron/ Osborne scare stories now. Most people will say yes to a common market and free trade; yes to friendship and co-operation and yes to free movement of labour among countries which are in the EU today – but we can achieve these aims outside the EU. Cameron, Osborne and their advisers don’t think the public is intelligent enough to deal with the deeply disturbing question of the increasing lack of democracy in the EU. They have completely ignored the issue and have no answer. That’s why they’ve reduced the debate to absurd stories about economic devastation and war, if we leave. But the public is far more intelligent than any narrow group of politicians and businessmen. By regaining democracy and power over our own future, we can make our own laws in this country and elect and dismiss our political representatives – while retaining good relations with our good friends in Europe and the world. Continuing to give away power to the unelected elite in Brussels is a dangerous and unpredictable path. Tim Martin Chairman

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 5

HAPPY TO HEAR YOUR EU VIEW Dear Tim

Your ‘Tim’s Viewpoint’ piece is as succinct and unbigoted a statement of the case for leaving the EU as I can remember reading. Your criticism of unacknowledged elites, both here and in Europe, was particularly timely, exposing the fundamentally undemocratic path ‘Tyrannosaurus Brux’ seems always to have intended following. In this connection, I understand that Ted Heath signed up, in principle, to a common currency, without telling even his own foreign minister (Douglas-Home)! Such matters should not be raised in your magazine? What utter, undemocratic tosh, almost certainly coming from those who find that your engaging and well-written ‘Viewpoints’ are not the same as theirs! You will not, I am sure, take any notice of them. Regards Ian White, Ashford, Middlesex Tim replies: Thanks for your views and support. To be fair, almost no one has said for a long time that these issues should not be debated in Wetherspoon News.

Your Say ER IFT VOUCH

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Write to: The Editor, Wetherspoon News, J D Wetherspoon plc, Central Park, Reeds Crescent, Watford, WD24 4QL E-mail: [email protected]

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REDEEM THESE YORKSHIRE TOWNS Dear Tim

Whenever I go to a town which I have not previously visited, I always look out for the Wetherspoon, knowing that there is almost certain to be one – and that I shall be guaranteed a good choice of food and drinks. But what happens when there is no Wetherspoon? Rather rare these days, but what would be the chances of opening one in Elland, Mirfield or Heckmondwike – all old Yorkshire towns? Morley seriously lacked one until recently, but what an outstanding success it has been since day one! Yours sincerely Philip C Tordoff Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire Tim replies: They like our prices and pints in Yorkshire, so we’ll keep an eye out for sites in the towns you mention – thanks.

PLEASE SEND THE HADDOCK SOUTH

Dear Tim

My wife and I are regular visitors at The Square Sail, in Lincoln, and eat there at least once a week. We both like fish, except that neither of us is particularly keen on cod; so, the fish and chips is one meal we do not order. However, we note from your spring magazine that haddock is available in your Scottish pubs. This would be right up our street. Is there any chance that haddock could be on the menu south of Hadrian’s Wall as well? Regular custom from us both would be guaranteed. Yours sincerely Rob Lewis, Lincoln Tim replies: We do sell haddock in some areas of northern England, too. However, we would need to have a strong local preference in Lincoln and the surrounding areas to make it work logistically.

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LETTERS

MORE THAN ONE WAY TO IMBIBE Dear Tim How lovely to go into a Wetherspoon pub (like the one in Ashford, Kent) and find shelves full of books. Not everyone wants to gaze at a screen, or tap furiously, as they enjoy your food and drink. Books are there waiting, in case you’d like a different sort of diversion or companion. Just the presence of books – there if you wish to dip in – contributes to the warm, relaxing, inviting ambience of the pub which Wetherspoon does so well. Yes to all the exciting modern technology, just keep the books too please, and how about bookless Wetherspoon pubs taking note? Yours sincerely Jane Hope, Basingstoke, Hampshire Tim replies: Books Do Furnish A Room is the title of one of the 12 volumes of Dance To The Music Of Time, by one of my favourite authors, Anthony Powell. There is something comforting about a book-filled room, as you say, especially in an old, atmospheric building like The County Hotel, in Ashford. Not sure whether all pubs should have books (there may not be enough books), but will discuss. Thanks for your comments.

FIZZY FILLIP FOR GIVEN THE PIP BY TOMATOES DESIGNATED DRIVER Dear Tim

Just like to say that, as a frequent visitor to my local Wetherspoon, The David Macbeth Moir, in Musselburgh, East Lothian, I am partial to partake of either Guinness or wine to accompany my meal, depending on the time of day. However, on the occasions that I become a designated driver, I must, of course, choose a drinking alternative; up until now, that has been less than inspiring – until, that is, I tried your latest addition to the inclusive menu – The Sanpellegrino Blood Orange sparkling drink, to give competition to the equally delicious Limonata drink. Remarkably refreshing and the perfect foil for a good lunchtime or evening’s dining. Great stuff! Does Sanpellegrino have other flavours in that range? If so, I would welcome yet another choice, if possible! Yours sincerely Mike Moss, Musselburgh, East Lothian Tim replies: Only sober people could possibly articulate Sanpellegrino Blood Orange. Whatever floats your boat, as they say – we will certainly look into an additional flavour.

CLIMBING STAIRWAY IS NOT HEAVEN WEIGHT LOSS ON THE MENU Dear Tim

As a regular customer of The Lime Kiln, Concert Square, Liverpool, I find the facilities, beverages and meals excellent. As a professional actor, I always see a lot of other performers in there, as many of their rehearsal rooms, and theatres, are close by – and they find it an excellent place to eat, drink and wind down.

Just one gripe, well, a nitpick: any chance of having toilets downstairs, as it saves on the legs going up and down stairs. Mind you, it does keep you fit. Yours sincerely Paul Strange Kirkby, Liverpool, Merseyside Tim replies: Thanks for the praise. Strangely enough, I read an article about 10 years ago regarding Peter Sarstedt (‘Where do you go , my lovely…’ etc), who had a number of hits in the 1960s and 70s and was still touring. He told the press he preferred our pubs because there was no music and he could always eat before a concert, no matter the time of day… Come on, Paul, drag yourself up those stairs, it’ll do you the world of good…

My husband Russell and I are avid fans of Wetherspoon. We are in our local, The Sir Henry Newbolt, in Bilston, every weekend. I go on my own at least two to three times a week. My reason for putting pen to paper is to thank you so very much for being a part of my weight-loss journey. On the last Thursday in May 2015, I walked into a Weightwatchers meeting and since then I have lost four and a half stone. It has been made so easy, going to the pub for our weekend meals, because your entire menu is included in our ‘eat out’ book. Also, many of the meals are low in points, my favourite being jacket potato with pulled pork or a skinny burger and salad – only 13 points. I cannot close without saying that, as a woman alone in a pub, I have never felt at all uncomfortable. The staff are all so polite and quick to serve. I look forward to the next two stone of weight-loss, all with your help. Mrs Carole Goode Bilston, Wolverhampton, West Midlands Tim replies: Glad to hear that Wetherspoon and Weightwatchers are seeing eye to eye. Good luck with the last couple of stone.

This meal offers excellent value for money, but, just one ‘little’ issue is with the tomato. Being ‘raw’, it is both hard in texture and very ‘bland’. Please can we have it (them) baked or grilled? This would soften the tomato and enhance its flavour. Yours sincerely Mr N Place Sherburn, Malton, North Yorkshire Tim replies: Something may have gone wrong here – the tomato should be cooked.

A LAMENT FOR LAMB Dear Tim I live in Newbury. It is a beautiful, thriving and forward-looking town, with the added benefit of two Wetherspoon pubs to visit: The Hatchet Inn and The Diamond Tap.

Both venues are superb and we visit them both weekly. The food range on offer is excellent, with something to suit everyone, but I would like to see the addition of a lamb dish. Many years ago, I can remember enjoying your lamb shank on mash – it was truly great! We are a major lamb-producing country, so I wondered whether your team would consider its inclusion again. I would love to hear your thoughts on this one. Yours sincerely Mrs Carolyne Calder, Newbury, Berkshire Tim replies: Many thanks for the comments. We are, indeed, considering lamb shank for this autumn, but cannot make a promise…

ON THE FOURTH DAY, WE CREATED CURRY

TY IMAGES PHOTO : REG SPELLER, GET

The food is wonderful value – and a free drink comes with the meal… actors never say no to a free drink in a convivial atmosphere.

Dear Tim

Dear Tim My partner and I really enjoy your full breakfast and, being non-meat-eaters, appreciate the delectable Quorn sausages.

Dear Tim I was on a train recently and there was a couple sitting opposite me.

“What day is it?” she asked him. “Curry,” he replied. It was, indeed, Thursday. Simon Laven Horley, Surrey

ck h am D av id D u

Tim replies: It has long been my ambition to make a few additions to Cockney rhyming slang. I’ve tried to introduce David Gower for ‘shower’, for example, without success. My latest offering is David Duckham – a brilliant Lions winger in the 1970s, when I get annoyed by people such as Cameron and Osborne and their wretched propaganda leaflet. But I’m happy to settle for changing the word Thursday to ‘curry’. Let’s face it – we all want to be remembered for something. www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 7

AWARDS

BUILDING OUR REPUTATION…

TOP DESIGN AWARDS WON BY OUR PUBS IN KESWICK AND ILFRACOMBE

The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, Keswick

The Admiral Collingwood, Ilfracombe

Two Wetherspoon pubs have been chosen as winners in the prestigious National Pub Design Awards 2015. The awards are run by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) in association with Historic England and the Victorian Society. The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, in Keswick, was crowned ‘best conversion to pub use’ and The Admiral Collingwood, in Ilfracombe, was named ‘the new build’ winner. The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas was formerly the town’s magistrate’s court and police station. The listed landmark had been empty for many years before Wetherspoon developed it.

“The only new area is the bar, which has been created outside the original footprint of the building, but whose external treatment subtly complements the historic fabric. “The conversion has been handled with real care and restraint and is a worthy example of how to do it well.” The Admiral Collingwood was a new build, developed at a cost of £4 million. The judges commented that ‘the new build’ award is rarely given by the Pub Design Award judges, “such is the mediocrity of most of our new pubs”. The judges stated: “This year, the judges have no hesitation in bestowing the rare accolade on The Admiral Collingwood, in Ilfracombe.

“The glass dome gives it an urban presence, while the rest of the main elevation is understated, yet sophisticated. Inside, the materials used throughout are bold and honest, the furniture is of reassuringly high quality, and even the toilets are provided with some architectural grandeur. “New artworks have been commissioned for the interior, and there is even a steel sculpture of a wave breaking, to remind us that we are, after all, on the town’s seafront. “The Admiral shows us what can be done, in the right hands.” Wetherspoon’s head of property development and acquisitions, Jon Randall, said: “We are extremely proud to have won two of the five awards.

The judges stated: “Customers still enter the building via the impressive porch, with its rusticated ‘Gibbs surround’, while, inside, “This is a striking building in a striking location. “The Pub Design Awards are the pinnacle – and to win one award is fantastic, but two you can drink in what was the main court The old hotel on the site burned down some is outstanding. room, which still retains its Edwardian years ago; now, a new pub has emerged, witness stand, magistrate’s bench, prisoners’ phoenix-like from the ashes of the old. “Wetherspoon has always taken the design of its dock and public enclosure. pubs seriously – and we strive to ensure that “The architects have devised an our pubs look brilliant, both inside and out. “You can even, if you dare, take your pint into uncompromisingly modern building, the delightfully atmospheric prisoners’ cells. “The two awards highlight the fact that we refreshingly free from fake Georgiana or are getting it right – and we will continue to ersatz-Victorian clichés. “Altogether, this is a very sensitive adaption; innovate in terms of our pub design.” there has been no attempt to impose an inappropriate ‘look’ across the site, and each room has been treated in a different idiom. 8 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

B L AC K P O O L

ON THE CREST OF A WAVE IN BLACKPOOL

The Velvet Coaster, in Blackpool, has won an award from Blackpool Civic Trust.

The pub, which cost £3.86 million to develop, opened in May 2015 on the site of the former Lucky Star Amusement Arcade. The awards are aimed at setting the standards for new developments, while safeguarding the resort’s rich heritage. A total of 11 awards was made, with Wetherspoon winning the award for ‘Best Night Time Economy’. Blackpool Civic Trust’s chairman, Joan Humble, told the Blackpool Gazette newspaper: “Our awards show that, across Blackpool, people are working hard to improve our community.”

Wetherspoon’s operations director, Martin Geoghegan, said: “This is a fantastic award to win.

“The Velvet Coaster is an extremely impressive pub, with its customer area spread over two floors, as well as a rooftop beer garden, with brilliant views over the sea. “Blackpool residents, as well as day-trippers and holidaymakers, have made it the success it is. “Before we developed it, the site was a disused amusement arcade. “We are proud to have breathed new life into the building and believe that it is a great asset to South Shore and to the town of Blackpool itself.

“In addition, we have created more than 160 full- and part-time jobs at the pub, as well as providing work for local suppliers.”

Pub manager Becki White, pictured right with bar associates Kelly Wilson (left) and Vicky Wilson, said: “During its first year, The Velvet Coaster has quickly become a great community pub and is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. “We are proud to receive this important award, from Blackpool Civic Trust. “Our regular customers are equally delighted that their local pub has been recognised in this way.”

WAT F O R D

AWARD JUDGES SWOON OVER WATFORD’S MOON Pub manager Kwame Tefe (right) and shift leader Darren McAteer proudly show off their awards, for The Moon Under Water.

The pub in Watford was among only 14 licensed premises, across the Hertfordshire town, to receive accreditation to the Watford Best Bar None scheme 2015/16. The Moon Under Water was also crowned winner in the ‘best pub’ category, against tough competition, at the ninth annual awards ceremony. It was organised by pub watch, the Safer Watford Partnership and supported by the Watford Observer local newspaper, and customers had the chance to vote for their favourite venues in the town, with 10 award categories. The winners were decided on by a rigorous assessment procedure which assessed venues across a range of categories, including hygiene, as well as a public vote on the newspaper website. All venues taking part had to prove that they go above and beyond the standard legal requirements to help drinkers to have a safe and enjoyable night out. Jamie MacKenzie, from Watford Borough Council, said: “The awards are a great opportunity to recognise the hard work which all staff put in throughout the year to making these venues safe.”

Kwame, who has managed the pub for the past six and a half years, said: “We are delighted to win this award and thank everyone who took the time and trouble to vote. “My team at The Moon Under Water and I work hard to ensure that we achieve and maintain high standards of customer service and safety. It is great for our efforts to be recognised.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 9

PUB GARDENS

ABOVE US ONLY SKY… OUR BEER GARDENS ARE WAITING FOR YOU

Enjoy al fresco relaxation this summer in the glorious gardens, courtyards and terraces of our pubs throughout Britain and Ireland njoy the summer sunshine this holiday, at Wetherspoon, relaxing in one of our beer gardens at locations throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

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Our inner-city and urban pubs, in towns and cities everywhere, offer an outdoor haven for dining, drinking and summer socialising. With tables and chairs among planters, shrubs and trees, you can enjoy your drink outside in comfortable surroundings.

Almost all of our pubs provide some form of outside drinking area, from a pavement café-style space to decking, courtyard and roof terrace, as well as beer gardens large and small.

Make the most of the great British summer, in our beer gardens at our pubs across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as the Republic of Ireland.

THE ANGEL VAULTS INN

● ● 5 SUN STREET, HITCHIN, HERTFORDSHIRE, SG5 1AE

This pub is housed in a grade II listed building and the former home of the Conservative Club in this north Hertfordshire market town. The large beer garden, to the rear of the premises, is part paved and partially lawned. An open barn provides a sheltered area for dining, in this beautifully furnished outdoor space.

THE OLD COURTHOUSE

● ● CASTLEROCK ROAD, COLERAINE, COUNTY LONDONDERRY, BT51 3HP

Built in 1852, this former courthouse has been a Wetherspoon pub for 15 years. The beer garden is at the front and side of the pub, providing large umbrellas and planted flower beds, as well as tables and chairs for al fresco dining. It is a wonderful suntrap, with a view of the bridge over the River Bann.

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THE CROSS KEYS

● ● 24 NORTHGATE, PEEBLES, SCOTTISH BORDERS, EH45 8RS

This pretty Borders town’s oldest inn building, a 17th-century category B listed town house, boasts two gardens. There is a courtyard to the front of the pub and hotel, as well as a secluded and peaceful walled garden at the rear. With mature trees, sculptures and ample tables and chairs, it is an idyllic place.

THE OLD BOROUGH

● ● 72 MAIN STREET, SWORDS, COUNTY DUBLIN

The building’s exterior is much as it was when first it opened as a school in 1809. The paved pub garden, located to the front and side of the premises, has steps to access and provides plenty of accommodation for drinking and dining. Raised flower beds, with plants and shrubs, add colour to the space.

THE SAWYER’S ARMS ● ● 3–6 COMMERCIAL STREET, MAESTEG, BRIDGEND, CF34 9DF

The pub has a distinctive stone façade, across the front of the pub and what was once the adjacent New Theatre. The courtyard-style rear garden, with stone paving, potted shrubs and trees, boasts an outside bar. A pergola, with climbing plants, is also a feature of this small oasis in the Welsh town.

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FOOD

BEHOLD OUR BESPOKE BRITISH BEEF BURGERS We go to UK suppliers for just about everything under the bun

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f you are looking for a great British burger, then your local Wetherspoon is the place to be. All of our beef burgers, bespoke to Wetherspoon, are made from 100 per cent British beef, all year round  – always fresh, never frozen. But the Britishness of your burger does not stop there. From May to October, the Cos midi lettuce leaves and tomatoes used in your burger garnish are all British-grown products, while the red onions are also sourced from our shores from September to May. Brioche The brioche bun is made using British butter, while the sugar ingredient is refined right here in the UK. A Cheddar cheese option adds to the UK produce, all made here and sourced from across the UK. In a nutshell, the ingredients in our burgers are up to 90 per cent British, during the salad-growing season here in Britain. Our chips are also 100 per cent British – and you can now enjoy an increased portion size, as we have listened to our customers asking for more, please! Produced by market-leading food producer McCain Foods, every portion of chips is made from 100 per cent British potatoes, sourced from more than 250 Red Tractor-assured farms across the UK. We take great care in finding the best ingredients for our menus. Whether working with farmers or producers – strong, integrated relationships and distribution control are key principles of our approach to food. Chips Building loyal and trusted supplier partnerships makes good business sense – and the fact that we have been working with McCain for over 10 years is testament to both the quality and popularity of the chips.

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You may prefer chicken to beef, in your burger; if so, our buttermilk chicken burger option may be the choice for you. Using buttermilk in recipes, particularly chicken, is becoming more and more prevalent here in the UK. A firm favourite in the US for some time, the buttermilk secret is now over here and being enjoyed at Wetherspoon. The secret is in the science, since dipping and coating the chicken in buttermilk, before frying, helps to tenderise the chicken and keep the meat moist, soft and more tender. Our fried buttermilk chicken burger is available throughout the week, from the ‘burgers & dogs’ selection on our main menu. It is available either as a burger on its own or substituted as an option on certain gourmet burgers. Customise Don’t forget that you can always customise your burger by doubling up on any burger for an extra £1.25*. A vegetable burger option is also available. Why not create your own personalised burger, with a choice of toppings and add-ons from a tasty list? This includes bacon, sautéed onion, Cheddar cheese, avocado and grilled halloumi, as well as peri-peri or BBQ sauce. Side orders of onion rings or a side of mac and cheese are additional options to complete your Wetherspoon burger experience. All of our burgers come with a drink included, so check out our craft bottles, beer and cider range produced in the UK, including Hogstar English lager, Hopping Hog IPA or Hazy Hog cloudy English cider.

*Price and participation may vary per pub.

NEWS

WEST KIRK IN AYR IS ANSWER TO A PRAYER

Pub manager Terri Hollywood (front) with (left to right) shift leader Jenny Boyce, deputy manager Cheryl McSorley and bar associate Renee Aitken

The Daily Telegraph’s Pint to Pint column (2013–15), written by a selection of Telegraph journalists and pub aficionados from throughout the country, is now available in a compilation book. For the dedicated pub-goer and the armchair drinker, this is an enticing selection of ‘proper’ pubs to gladden the heart and slake the thirst. Among the pubs featured in the publication, The Telegraph, Pint to Pint: A Crawl Around Britain’s Best Pubs, is The West Kirk, in Ayr. It says: “Traditionally, the pub is the place you visit after church. At this elegantly vaulted establishment, however, the church (well, former church) is the pub. “What’s more, The West Kirk retains more than a few of its ecclesiastical features. It has a raised wooden pulpit, a first-floor balcony for worshipper overspill, plus a soaring, pointy-spired frontage that clearly signposts the way to heaven. Not to mention a massive suspended light fitting that hovers over the congregation of quaffers like an outsized flying saucer.

BLUE MOON: PLAQUE LOOKS BACK TO GRACIE’S GLORY

A local legend is being remembered at a former cinema, now a Wetherspoon pub, in Rochdale.

A blue plaque to commemorate actress and singer Dame Gracie Fields, CBE (1898–1979) is set to be unveiled at The Regal Moon, in the Lancashire town. It will read: Gracie first performed here in 1938, when the building was used as a theatre. During this visit, she was presented with her portrait, commissioned by the Rochdale Observer and paid for by the people of Rochdale. Gracie’s final appearance here was at a charity concert in 1949.

“There are, however, certain elements that you don’t get in the average apse. “And unlike many a Scottish pub, the food is not an afterthought. Instead of the odd curly sandwich served with pickled onions, there’s a big menu offering 100-plus dishes. “And while all the usual big-name drinks are in stock, there are plenty of less-mass-market Scottish ales, all prominently displayed. “So many watering holes these days find it hard to win the hearts of local people. By contrast, with its come-unto-me prices, its daily promotions and its message of welcome for all, The West Kirk is helping to spread the gospel of pub-going far and wide. “God bless it in its work.” Trusted Telegraph reviewers have made their selection in this book, based on highly personal, but well-informed, criteria, resulting in a nationwide pub crawl like no other. This is the perfect book for anyone who considers a good pub to be a British birth right.

l Published by Icon Books Ltd, RRP £12.99, available at amazon.co.uk From humble beginnings above her grandmother’s fish-and-chip shop, in Molesworth Street, during her 60-plus years in show business, Grace Stansfield, the mill girl from Rochdale, became the favourite of kings and queens, as well as the ordinary lads and lasses. The blue plaque will be installed by Rochdale Borough Council, assisted and supported by British Heritage and the ‘Dame Gracie Fields Appreciation Society’. Caryn Davenport, Wetherspoon’s area manager, said: “Gracie Fields is a local legend: there is a local theatre named after her and we have artwork on display in the pub about her life and career. “Local history is of great importance to Wetherspoon – and we are delighted that The Regal Moon has been selected to display this commemorative plaque, remembering one of Rochdale’s most well-known and loved characters.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 13

AWARDS LATE ROOMS AND GREAT ROOMS – IMPRESSED GUESTS PRAISE OUR HOTELS

No fewer than nine Wetherspoon hotels have been recognised for their quality of service – in the Simply the Guest Awards 2016. Two of the venues achieved success in two different categories, in the Late Rooms annual awards – the UK’s only hotels awards based purely on genuine guest reviews. Topping the chart in number-one position, in the ‘budget hotels’ category, was The Portland Hotel, in Chesterfield. Hotel manager Craig White, pictured with housekeeper Hayley Preece, said: “Winning the ‘best budget hotel’, out of thousands of hotels, is great news. “Thank you to all of our guests who took the time and trouble to write a review and help us to achieve this success.” Presented by LateRooms.com, the online hotel booking specialists, the awards honour those properties with the most positive customer feedback reviews on the site. It identifies the winning hotels by using a huge database of genuine customer reviews which score the hotels on their service, cleanliness, location and general guest experience. The Royal Hop Pole, in Tewkesbury, finished fourth in the ‘historic hotels’ category, as well as ninth in the ‘customer service hotels’ poll. The Last Post, in Southend-on-Sea, achieved eighth position in both ‘budget hotels’ and ‘beach hotels’ categories. In the ‘family friendly hotels’ section, Cabot Court Hotel (Weston-super-Mare) finished fourth, while The Cross Keys (Peebles) achieved eighth place. The Kings Head Hotel (in Beccles) came third in ‘business hotels’.

Andrea Tarpey, LateRooms.com spokesperson said: “The LateRooms.com Simply The Guest Awards have become a highlight of the travel and hotel calendar, since their launch four years ago.

The Catherine Wheel (Henley-on-Thames) finished sixth in the ‘historic hotels’ category, The Shrewsbury Hotel (Shrewsbury) was fourth in the ‘budget hotels’ section and The Wyndham Arms (Bridgend) was placed eighth in the ‘customer service hotels’ league table.

“Because all reviews on the LateRooms.com site come only from customers who have genuinely booked and stayed at the property, it is now a trusted benchmark among those looking for a hotel, where they know they can be confident of a truly outstanding stay.”

N E W P O R T, I S L E O F W I G H T

THE WIGHT STUFF: NEWPORT MOON MISSION THRILLS GROUND CONTROL

The Man in the Moon, in Newport, has been recognised by the local council in its annual design awards 2015. The pub, on the Isle of Wight, has been selected by Newport Parish Council Planning Committee for its ‘special conservation award’. Shirley Smart, chairman of the Parish Planning & Licensing Committee, said: “Each year, we make annual design awards to completed building projects in our area. “Our committee, and many others, is very impressed with what Wetherspoon has achieved at The Man in the Moon, the overall quality of the work and the contribution which the building now makes to the character and appearance of the area.” Pub manager Tony Duncan (pictured centre), with team leader Kym Kullander and bar associate Suzi Abbot, said: “Since opening, the pub has become a very popular community hub for the local people in Newport, and this recognition is most welcome.” Wetherspoon spent £1.86 million developing the outlet on the site of a former nightclub, opening the pub in May 2014. The site was once the Newport Congregational Church and had been home to several bars since the sale of the church in 2002. Designed by Francis Pouget, the Gothic-style ‘Great Chapel’ was built in 1848. The trustees had secured the plot (messuage) for £500-5s, described as ‘the messuage formerly called The Man in the Moon’. It was recorded by that name in 1739 and, many years earlier, in the will of ‘John Hopkins Gent of Newport’ dated 14 October 1680. 14 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Left to right: Bar associate Leeonna Kenny, team leader Sarah McClymont and bar associate Victoria Leach

GALASHIELS

BIG WIN FOR ENGLISH IN SCOTTISH BORDERS Hunters Hall is one of 13 venues across the Scottish Borders to receive accreditation to Best Bar None.

The pub in Galashiels gained a silver award in the 2015 Borders competition, supported by the Scottish government, Scottish Borders Council (SBC), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland. Pubs and bars were independently assessed and had to meet a large number of criteria, including prevention of crime and disorder, protection of public safety, prevention of public nuisance, promotion of public health and protecting children.

PC Nick Walker, Scottish Borders safer community team, told the Border Telegraph newspaper: “This has been a fantastic year for Best Bar None in the Scottish Borders, with a wide range of premises taking part, from right across the area.

“They should be congratulated for all of their hard work.” Pub manager Susan English said: “It is important that as many venues as possible support this scheme and strive to achieve high standards for the safety of our staff and customers. “We are pleased to have attained a silver award on this occasion.”

DOOM BOOM AS CLASSIC ZOOMS UP PIE CHART

Since adding the British beef & Doom Bar ale pie back to our menu, in October 2015, the classic pub dish has been recognised at a prestigious industry awards ceremony.

A favourite with customers across the UK and back by popular demand, the Wetherspoon pie achieved ‘gold’ status in the ‘beef & ale class’ at the British Pie Awards 2016. Produced by Wellingborough-based supplier Dunkleys, our British beef & Doom Bar ale pie was judged at the awards held in Melton Mowbray, the Rural Capital of Food, and hosted by the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association. The awards, running since 2009 and split into 20 classes, are a national annual celebration of British pies in all their varieties. The event sees hundreds of pie-makers gathering for a celebration and competition of this British culinary favourite. They have a selection of the most knowledgeable figures in the industry on hand, presiding over the day’s proceedings. For the purposes of the awards, a pie is defined as the following: ‘A pie is deemed to be a filling totally encased in pastry’. The event aims to celebrate the heritage of the British pie, protect and promote regional specialities, recognise the craft of bakers, butchers and other producers and to support British produce.

Matt Elsdon, Wetherspoon’s food-development manager, said: “We strive hard to source the best-quality products for our customers to enjoy, including many iconic dishes, with great British ingredients. “Our British beef & Doom Bar ale pie is a particular favourite – and we are delighted that it has achieved a ‘gold’, at the British Pie Awards 2016.”

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AWARDS  A I R D R I E A N D COAT B R I D G E

CALEDONIAN PUB PAIR STRIKES GOLD Two Wetherspoon pubs in Scotland have achieved the highest-possible accreditation at their local Best Bar None Awards 2015/16.

The Robert Hamilton (Airdrie) and The Vulcan (Coatbridge) both received ‘gold’ accreditation at the Airdrie and Coatbridge event. The Robert Hamilton retained its ‘gold’ status from last year, while The Vulcan went one better than its 2014/15 ‘silver’ this time around. Pub managers Michelle Quinn (The Robert Hamilton) and Sam Brown (The Vulcan) are pictured. Phil Buckley, Wetherspoon’s area manager for Borders and Lanarkshire, said: “Congratulations to the management and teams at both pubs for attaining and maintaining such high standards to achieve these highly coveted gold awards.” Launched in the Lanarkshire towns’ centres in 2013, initially as a pilot scheme, the Best Bar None initiative focuses on safety and customer care, rewarding safe and well-managed licensed venues. The Best Bar None accreditation scheme was adopted in Scotland in 2005 to promote positive relationships between licensed traders and local partner agencies, to create safer and more welcoming city and town-centre environments.

LIVERPOOL

HORNBY ON TRACK, WITH KILN IN HOT PURSUIT

Two Wetherspoon pubs in Liverpool have been recognised by their local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) members, in its annual awards.

The Frank Hornby, in Maghull, finished as runner-up in the Liverpool and District CAMRA Pub of the Year competition, while The Lime Kiln, in Liverpool city centre, was also among the five short-listed finalists. Both pubs received a ‘pub of excellence’ award from the branch. Members were invited to vote, in the annual competition, for their favourite city-centre and suburban pubs, from over 100 venues, to be put forward for the judging process. Each pub was then visited twice by a panel of judges, who awarded points for the quality of beer, atmosphere/style/ furnishing and cleanliness, service/welcome/offering, community focus, alignment with CAMRA principles and overall impression. Harrison Abbott, pub manager at The Frank Hornby, said: “Finishing second in this CAMRA contest is a great achievement for us and one with which we are thrilled. “There are so many venues in and around Liverpool; so, for two Wetherspoon pubs to finish in the top five is a real accomplishment.” Andre Fu, Liverpool and District CAMRA Pub of the Year co-ordinator and Wetherspoon liaison officer, said: “Although it didn’t win, The Frank Hornby came a very creditable second. “I’m very pleased it did so well, at its first attempt, and it’s good to see that the efforts of Harrison and all his team have paid dividends. “Some of the judges were particularly impressed by the pub’s beers’ quality and the range of beers on offer during their visits. Comments were also made about the high standard of service offered by the staff, even at busier times.” 16 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Pub manager Harrison Abbott and Andre Fu from CAMRA

MEXBOROUGH

HALL OF FAME: CAMRA AWARD FOR FORMER MARKET

“As the name suggests, the building was The Old Market Hall, in Mexborough, has been used as a market hall for over 100 years; recognised by members of the Doncaster & District Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch. then, in 2009, it was taken over by Wetherspoon, and so this great building The pub, managed by Matt Fearn, has been continues to serve the community named ‘district pub of the season’ for winter of Mexborough. 2015/16. The award-presentation evening, at the outlet, was attended by branch members.

Matt (pictured) said: “I am delighted that The Old Market Hall has gained the award, reflecting the hard work which all of the team members put in at the pub.”

“Many of the original features of the building have been kept, giving the popular pub a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It caters for diners, with an extensive menu, which is reasonably priced.

“The pub serves up to six continually changing Chris Holliday, LocAle officer Doncaster & quality real ales and cider, in addition to the District CAMRA, said: “The Old Market Hall has always been a well-known local landmark. permanent offerings, so there is normally a beverage to suit all tastes.

“It is also a promoter of CAMRA’s LocAle scheme – and the real ale has always been in good condition, gaining the Cask Marque award. “The tastefully converted market hall has become a busy local hub for locals and visitors alike.” As well as the three permanent ales, Ruddles, Abbot Ale and Doom Bar, the seven guest ale pumps serve an ever-changing range, including those from local Yorkshire-based producers Acorn Brewery of Barnsley, Elland Brewery in Elland and Sheffield’s Kelham Island and Stancill Breweries.

HARD CASK MASTER FINDS QUALITY BEYOND THE FROTH Wetherspoon has the highest-rated cask beer quality of any managed pub company in the UK – according to independent real-ale assessor Cask Marque.

Cask Marque’s assessors visit thousands of pubs, unannounced, each year – to check the quality of the cask beer on offer, including the temperature, appearance, aroma and taste. This includes more than 2,000 annual visits to Wetherspoon’s pubs. Over a 12-month period, 92 per cent of Wetherspoon’s pubs passed the assessment, with 72 per cent scoring a perfect 100. In total, Wetherspoon has 940 accredited pubs, accounting for 99 per cent of our estate. Cask Marque’s director, Paul Nunny, pictured (right) with duty manager David Gillin at The George in Wanstead, said: “Wetherspoon should be proud of the fact that it has the highest-rated cask beer quality of any managed pub company in the UK. “Beer is an important aspect of its overall business – and this is evidenced in the assessments undertaken by our team. “Wetherspoon’s beer range and its two highly successful beer festivals give added interest to both staff and customers, and the Cask Marque plaque will reassure customers that they can trust the quality of beer in their local Wetherspoon.

“Despite its excellent Cask Marque scores, Wetherspoon and its staff always strive to maintain and improve their scores in the assessments.” Wetherspoon’s commercial manager, Gary Holmes, said: “Our pubs serve millions of pints of cask beer each year – and it is important that customers receive the perfect beer each and every time they order one. “The fact that our pubs have been rated so highly by independent assessors highlights the care and attention which our pub staff deliver in keeping and serving cask beer to the highest standards.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 17

AWARDS S A N D B AC H

FLUSHED WITH PRIDE AFTER LOO OF THE YEAR VICTORY

Pub manager Laura Mosford

CARMARTHEN

FIERY FOX IN HEN HOUSE

Pub manager Darren Latham fully appreciates that running his pub is a team effort. When The George Inn won acclaim for the quality and standards of its toilets, in the Loo of the Year Awards 2015, he was quick to recognise the efforts of his cleaning staff. The pub, in Sandbach, was awarded a platinum star rating by inspectors – the highest award possible, given only to outlets which offer ‘exceptional toilets’. Cleaners Linda Cope and Caroline Roughley have been at the pub since it opened in December 2013, while newcomer Natasha Simpson has recently replaced her mum, Pamela Tipping, as the third member of the team.

“They are responsible for cleaning the customer area and toilets, as well as back-of-house, including corridors and the staff room. They are an essential part of our team and work hard to keep the pub clean. “This award is testament to that hard work – and it is lovely for them to receive the recognition.” The awards are aimed at highlighting and improving standards of away-from-home toilet provision across the UK. Authorised inspectors make unannounced visits to hundreds of toilets at sites across the UK, in order to judge them.

The Loo of the Year Awards 2015’s managing director, Mike Bone, said: Darren, pictured with the cleaning team, said: “The toilets at The George Inn have been “It is obviously a seven-day operation for them, designed and fitted out to a very high standard and are both clean and with two of the three members in every day well maintained.” from 6.30am, for a couple of hours.

Yr Hen Dderwen, in Carmarthen, was named ‘best PINT of the week’ in the Carmarthen Journal newspaper.

The report stated: “A trusty Wetherspoon pub in the heart of Carmarthen, Yr Hen Dderwen has a merry buzz to it, even at the traditionally quieter times of day. “There’s plenty of room inside, the simple modern wood furniture and carpeted floors lending it a homely feel. “There are old pictures of Carmarthen on the wall and excellent real ales behind the bar. “On a recent visit, we spotted Fiery Fox from Gwynt y Ddraig, Evan Evans’ Fly Half and BrewDog bottled beers, plus top-class lagers such as Staropramen and Moretti. “As you’d expect from Wetherspoon, there’s also an appealing, keenly priced menu, with Calorie-counted options, as well as hearty classics.”

RY D E

ALL WIGHT ON THE NIGHT: ISLAND PUB HITS HEIGHTS

Pub manager Sharon Longley is pictured at her pub S. Fowler & Co., in Ryde.

The pub, which she has managed for the past 14 years with her husband Neil, finished runner-up in the Isle of Wight Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Pub of the Year 2015 awards. Sharon, who joined Wetherspoon in 1999, said: “We have finished in fifth and fourth place previously; so, to achieve second this time around is very pleasing. There is a lot of tough competition on the island, so we are chuffed with the result. “We have a good relationship with our local CAMRA members, many of whom are regular drinkers here; they hold their quarterly meeting at the pub. “The member visits to the pub, for the awards voting, were all unannounced, so high quality and consistency are key to success. We also have a selection of 12 ales on at all times, meaning we offer great choice.” As well as three permanent beers, Abbot Ale, Doom Bar and Ruddles, S. Fowler & Co. offers an ever-changing range of nine guest ales, including those from the local Goddards Brewery, based nearby in Ryde. 18 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Sharon said: “We always stock at least one Goddards beer, sometimes two, usually Fuggle-Dee-Dum (4.8% ABV), as well as a selection of its bottled craft beer range.” Brian Jacobs, Isle of Wight CAMRA branch press officer, said: “Fowlers is highly regarded on the Isle of Wight as being one of the best pubs locally for beer choice and consistently excellent quality, in respect of both real ales and craft beers. “Sharon and Neil are both well informed and enthusiastic.”

DUNFERMLINE

AWARD FOR SHERRIE, McQUEEN OF CLEAN

The Guildhall & Linen Exchange has been awarded for its high standards in food hygiene. Pub manager Sherrie McQueen is pictured with members of her team and council representatives, receiving the Eat Safe award at her pub in Dunfermline.

The scope of the award covers all establishments selling food directly to consumers; as well as restaurants, pubs and hotels, it also includes take-aways, workplaces, coffee shops and cafés, education and healthcare sectors. Sherrie said: “Food hygiene and safety are of paramount importance to us at The Guildhall & Linen Exchange.

The Eat Safe award, promoting excellence in food hygiene, provides an incentive to food businesses to strive for excellent food hygiene and food safety management standards.

“The whole team and I work hard to achieve and maintain high standards of excellence and it is very pleasing to be recognised, not only for us, but especially for our customers.

Councils present the award, and the scheme is run in conjunction with the Food Standards Agency in Scotland. For consumers, it provides a recognisable sign of excellence in standards of food hygiene.

“The Eat Safe logo or the Eat Safe certificate highlights to customers that the food they are eating has been prepared in conditions which are above those required by current legislation.”

Eligible establishments are assessed for the award as part of scheduled food hygiene inspections, carried out by Local Authority Environmental Health Services, which issues Eat Safe award certificates. All areas of the food outlet are inspected, including toilets, food storage units and staff rooms.

Pictured (left to right) are shift manager Stevie Reid, kitchen associate Andy Hulston, kitchen team leader Laura Taylor, senior manager Protective Services Fife Council Roy Stewart, shift manager Barry McQueen, pub manager Sherrie McQueen, kitchen manager Yvonne Cuthbert and environmental health food and workplace safety team lead officer Lorna Starkey.

WAT F O R D

FORMAL AWARD LAUDS OUR CASUAL APPROACH Wetherspoon has been named Multiple Casual Dining Pub Brand of the Year, in the inaugural Casual Dining Restaurant & Pub Awards 2016.

The awards recognise the stand-out brands of the year, across the growing multibillion-pound casual dining sector. Wetherspoon’s chief executive, John Hutson, was presented with the award, on behalf of the company, at a ceremony in London.

“Wetherspoon is a very worthy winner of this award. Its pubs offer an excellent choice of meals throughout the day, with the emphasis on quality, provenance and good value.” John Hutson added: “It is great for the company to be recognised with this award. “Our pubs serve millions of meals each year – with food being a vital part of our overall success.

Casual Dining’s group event director, Chris Brazier, said: “Wetherspoon was founded in 1979, so it is very pleasing “The casual dining market is thriving, thanks, in large part, that, 37 years on, we are still winning plaudits.” to the fantastic innovations and dedication of operators and the incredible dining experience they offer. www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 19

CIDER FESTIVAL

PIP, PIP HOORAY: JOY FOR ALL CRAFT AT WORLD’S BIGGEST CIDER FESTIVAL

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Thirty ciders available at 17-day festival across UK and Republic of Ireland

C

ider-lovers at our pubs across the UK and the Republic of Ireland can enjoy an unbeatable range of draught ciders during the annual 17-day Wetherspoon cider festival. The selection of 30 ciders, all from different cider-makers from across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, features apple, pear and fruit ciders, including some not previously available in the pubs and others produced exclusively for the festival. One of the ciders (Cidre Normandie) has been made by a visiting French cider-maker from Normandy, in collaboration with an English cider-maker. They include award-winning ciders, a cider made with sloeberries, a cider matured in oak vats, a cider flavoured with mango and another with damson, as well as a strawberry, raspberry & blackcurrant cider.

Among those on offer are Fruit Bat (Snails Bank), Monkey Mango (Cockeyed Cider Company), Cidre Normandie (La Ferme de Billy), Dark Cider the Moon (Orchard Pig), Midnight Special Perry (Mr Whitehead’s), Tempted Sweet Irish Craft Cider (Tempted Cider), Muddy Scamp (Purbeck Cider Company) and Red Hen (Worley’s).

TRY 3 CID FOR THE P ERS RICE

FESTIVAL

⅓-PINT T ASTING G

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PINT

LASSES

Vintage In addition, the pubs will serve Down Down Cider (a Herefordshire medium cider, produced by Celtic Marches in collaboration with rock group Status Quo), a Texan-style Cornish hard cider by Healeys and the first vintage cider made with only traditional English eating apples, Friels Vintage, produced by Aston Manor. Tasting notes on all of the ciders will be available at the pubs, and customers are able to enjoy three one-third-pint tasters of cider for the price of a pint.

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CIDER FESTIVAL

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RS E C U D O R P C ID E R

Percy’s Pride (6.0% ABV), from Hunt’s Cider Ltd., based in Totnes, Devon, is a sweet, cloudy Devon Cider, packed with bittersweet apples for a full-bodied long-lasting flavour. The Hunt family first started selling cider in 1805 – Nicholas Prout Hunt was a prominent cider-maker in the Paignton area in the 1800s. Director Annette Hunt, pictured below with her dad Roger Hunt, said: “We have a 200-acre farm, set in an area of outstanding natural beauty in south Devon, with ancient orchards. “This is the second time that we have produced an exclusive cider for the cider festival, the biggest thing we do, by far. Family “We are a small family business: my brother Richard makes the cider and I sell it, supplying predominantly across Devon. We are very proud to be involved and supply our products across the UK with Wetherspoon. “Percy’s Pride is named after our great-grandfather and fifth-generation cider-maker.” Mounts Bay Cornish Scrumpy (7.0% ABV) won a bronze award at Taste of the West 2014. The Cornish Scrumpy Cider is a little rugged and is still, not sparkling, in keeping with traditional heritage. It is made with selected pressed West Country apples.

“For nearly 10 years, we have been using traditional methods and ingredients, along with some contemporary flair, to create bespoke craft drinks.” Favourite Monkey Mango (4.0% ABV), made by Cockeyed Cider Company is one such product and a festival favourite. A refreshing sweet/sharp mango-flavoured fruit cider, it is made near Cullompton, in Devon. East Midlands CAMRA cider & perry competition 2013 bronze award-winner Fullback (4.5% ABV) is a medium-dry cider, with fruit flavours and a zesty apple finish. It is produced by The Bottle Kicking Cider Company, in Leicestershire. Cider-maker and proprietor Rob Morton, pictured below with Maisie the dog, said: “As a small-scale craft cider-maker, we are able to select the finest apples to make what we believe to be a great-tasting drink.

It is produced by Polgoon Vineyard & Orchard in Penzance, a small artisan family-run business, dedicated to producing artisan Cornish ciders, wines and juices on their farm in Cornwall.

“Very popular in the East Midlands, Fullback is slightly lower in alcohol than a lot of ciders – easy-drinking and refreshing, made predominantly from local fruit.

Owners Kim and John Coulson, pictured (above) with daughter Emma Clunie (right) all work on the family farm.

“We have been involved in the last three festivals, our biggest order of the year. The event is a fantastic platform for us. We are mainly a regional craft producer and the Wetherspoon craft cider festival enables us to showcase our cider nationally – which is brilliant.”

Kieran Aylward (pictured top right), cider-maker at Cockeyed Cider Company, said: “We have made and sold beer, cider, country wine and liqueurs all across the country – and have taken inspiration from all of the interesting recipes and characters we encountered along the way.

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CRAFT

TASTING NOTES

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1. DARK CIDER THE MOON 4.0% ABV Somerset Orchard Pig

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DOWN DOWN CIDER

4.6% ABV Herefordshire Celtic Marches

Play to your dark side with this cider. Savour the rich, fruity tang of sloeberries, blended with Somerset cider apples.

This cider is a collaboration with Status Quo. It is a beautifully rounded, golden, medium cider, with a well-balanced finish – made using the finest freshpressed Herefordshire cider apple juice.

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10. CIDRE NORMANDIE

FRUIT BAT

4.0% ABV Herefordshire Snails Bank

This crisp apple cider is blended with strawberry, raspberry and blackcurrant – perfect when the sun’s out and the work is finished!

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MONKEY MANGO

4.0% ABV Devon Cockeyed Cider Company

A sweet, sharp, mango-flavoured fruit cider – refreshing!

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ROSIE'S PIG HANDBRAKE CLOUDY CIDER WITH DAMSON 4.0% ABV Herefordshire Westons Cider

The rich plum flavours of damson add a deliciously smooth fruitiness when blended with Rosie’s Pig Cloudy Cider.

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DEVON MIST

4.5% ABV Devon Sandford Orchards

This cloudy cider is bursting with scrumpy soul. Rich autumnal fruit is expertly blended to produce a long and satisfying finish. The perfect marriage of old and new, this cider’s traditional methods are used again for the modern palate. INTERNATIONAL CIDER CHALLENGE 2014 – SILVER

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FULLBACK

4.5% ABV Leicestershire The Bottle Kicking Cider Company

Medium-dry fruit flavours give way to the zesty apple at the end. EAST MIDLANDS CAMRA CIDER & PERRY COMPETITION 2013 – BRONZE AWARD

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SWEET KERNEL

4.5% ABV Worcestershire Barbourne Cider Co

This is an easy-drinking, smooth and sweet cider, made from blending the finished cider with apple juice. It is well balanced, light and refreshing – with a distinctive apple flavour.

4.7% ABV Normandy, France La Ferme de Billy

This quintessential Normandy cider is rich and fruity, with gentle bitterness and mild tannins. Traditional ultraslow fermentation, along with the celebrated apple varieties of Normandy, gives abundant character to this delicious cider.

11. HERITAGE

4.9% ABV Somerset Thatchers

Matured in oak vats and crafted from selected apples, this is unfiltered – to give a rich haze, delivering a medium cider.

12. PEAR CIDER

5.0% ABV Cornwall Cornish Orchards

This refreshing, delicate, medium-dry cider has a lovely, soft sparkle, with gentle pear tones and a crisp, dessert apple finish. It is created with beautiful English Conference pears. TASTE OF THE WEST AWARDS 2015 – SILVER

13. MIDNIGHT

SPECIAL PERRY 5.0% ABV Hampshire Mr Whitehead’s

This natural perry is made with a blend of dessert and perry pears, including Thorn, Blakeney Red, Conference and Concorde. It has a pleasant pear aroma and subtle (yet full-bodied) taste, with a light straw colour. It’s not too sweet (as many perries are), owing to the blend of varieties used. CAMRA SOUTH OF ENGLAND CHAMPION PERRY 2015

14. TEMPTED SWEET IRISH CRAFT CIDER 5.0% ABV County Antrim Tempted Cider

This full-bodied cider has a smooth finish, sweetened with a generous measure of this producer’s own pure apple juice. IRISH QUALITY FOOD AWARDS 2014 – CIDER WINNER;

WEST MIDLANDS CAMRA CHAMPION CIDER OCTOBER 2015

BLAS NA HÉIREANN 2015 – GOLD AWARD CIDER CATEGORY

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15. OPA (OAK,PEARS & APPLE)

TWO TREES FARMHOUSE PERRY

4.5% ABV Rhondda Cynon Taf Gwynt y Ddraig

This pale fruity perry has a subtle aroma of pears and a hint of honey on the palate. CAMRA NATIONAL CIDER & PERRY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2015 – GOLD AWARD

5.5% ABV Somerset Perry’s

This is part of Perry’s barrel-ageing programme. It ferments the cider to 5.5% ABV using wild yeasts, before ageing for four months in oak barrels. Finally, the cider is sweetened with pear juice, giving a well-balanced hybrid cider which is refreshingly on the sweet side, with notes of apple, pear and wood from the oak barrels.

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16.DRIFTWOOD

24. RED HEN

This deep, rich and flavoursome cider is packed with natural ripe apple flavours, crisp acidity and a refreshing sweetness. Notes of dried prunes and oak-shavings are also present.

This medium-dry cider is blended from early season apple varieties, resulting in a rich and satisfying cider, with a spicy nose, plenty of fruit and a long, dry finish.

6.0% ABV Devon Lyme Bay

TASTE OF THE WEST AWARDS 2015 – GOLD

17. DUNKERTON'S LATE SWEET VINTAGE

6.0% ABV Somerset Rich’s Cider This cider is pressed from apples grown traditionally in orchards around Glastonbury, giving a naturally sweet, mellow-tasting cider with great depth of flavour. SOMERSET LIFE MAGAZINE ‘BEST DRINK PRODUCT IN SOMERSET’ 2015

18. HALLETS DRAUGHT 6.0% ABV Glamorgan Hallets

This full-bodied, oak-aged vintage cider offers a complex and long flavour. THIS CIDER’S SPARKLING VERSION WON THE BRITISH FARM FOODS 2015 AWARD, ALSO LISTED (THE INDEPENDENT) AS ONE OF THE TOP 10 BEST CIDERS IN THE UK

19. HECKS 1841

6.0% ABV Somerset Hecks

Celebrating 175 years of the Hecks family making cider in Somerset, this tried-and-tested blend of bittersweet and bittersharp cider apples produces a satisfyingly smooth, rounded medium cider. BRITISH CHAMPION FARMHOUSE CIDER, THE ROYAL BATH & WEST SHOW, 2014

20. PERCY'S PRIDE 6.0% ABV Devon Hunt’s

This is a sweet, cloudy Devon cider, packed with bittersweet apples for a full-bodied, long-lasting flavour.

21. TEXAN STYLE HARD CORNISH CYDER 6.0% ABV Cornwall Healeys

Demerara sugar ensures that this rich, unique cider packs a Texan-style punch. Enjoy with a twist of lime!

22. VINTAGE

6.0% ABV Surrey The Garden Cider Company

This ‘real’ cider is smooth and mellow, having been seasoned for a perfectly balanced pint.

23. ORIGINAL

6.2% ABV East Lothian Thistly Cross

This is the original cider from Scotland’s first dedicated cider-maker – where it all began. This is carefully hand-crafted in small batches, with local fruit, to produce a refreshing and well-balanced cider which will change your perception of cider for ever.

6.2% ABV Somerset Worley’s

BRITISH CIDER CHAMPIONSHIPS – SILVER; TASTE OF THE WEST AWARDS 2015 (BOTTLED VERSION) – CHAMPION CIDER

25. APPLE VICE 6.5% ABV Devon Ventons

This medium, whole-juice, ‘real’ cider from Devon is made from a well-balanced blend of bittersharp and bittersweet vintage cider apple varieties. It has full-bodied soft tannins – fruity and smooth – an easy choice for those who like something not too sweet and not too dry.

26. OLD CONKY 6.5% ABV Somerset Sheppy’s

Named after the Duke of Wellington, the victor of Waterloo, to celebrate the 200th anniversary, this cider is a rich bittersweet blend with a bright, crisp taste – expressly for those with a nose for good cider!

27. MUDDY SCAMP 6.9% ABV Dorset Purbeck Cider Company

This is Purbeck’s strongest cider to date – with its well-balanced flavour, it is cloudy and still, like all great traditional farmhouse ciders.

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CORNISH SCRUMPY

7.0% ABV Cornwall Polgoon

This is a little rugged and is still (not sparkling), in keeping with traditional heritage. Made with selected pressed West Country apples, this is truly a scrumptious drink. TASTE OF THE WEST AWARDS 2014 – BRONZE

29. FRIELS VINTAGE 7.4% ABV Worcestershire Aston Manor

This is the first vintage cider crafted with juice from traditional English eating apple varieties, made in a limited batch from the first press of the harvest. This is a refreshingly crisp, fruity, full-flavoured cider, with a smooth, clean finish – made with 100% pressed juice.

30. WADDLEGOOSE BULLHEAD CYDER 7.4% ABV Suffolk Aspall

Mid to dark yellow in colour, this cider has a clean aroma, with traditional bittersweet, floral and woody notes. It is full bodied and medium in sweetness, with a weighty palate and a pleasant astringency to finish.

SMALL PLATES

Grilled halloumi

SMAll

Sweet chilli sauce

Nachos

Soup

MAKE FRIENDS WITH OUR SOCIABLE FOOD

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Spicy coated king prawns

Small-plates range suits all palates and pockets

or many of us, a meal out is about socialising and sharing. A few drinks, good food and great company, enjoyed around a table with friends and laughter, form the perfect evening.

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Topped Our topped chips are available in two varieties, either loaded with cheese, bacon and sour cream or served with chip shop-style curry sauce – a real retro treat.

Whether it is called tapas, meze or just bites to share, the Wetherspoon small-plates range offers the ideal accompaniment for that occasion, with a selection of sociable food for all to enjoy.

Wetherspoon’s small plates include soup of the day (ask at the bar for details), served with half a baguette, as well as no-gluten vegetarian grilled halloumi, accompanied by sweet chilli sauce and rocket.

Tasty Our collection of numerous tasty bites, to suit all palates and pockets, with three small-plate dishes for just a tenner, is on offer every day. Select from topped chips, small nachos (half-size portion of our sharer dish), spicy coated king prawns, southern-fried chicken strips or buffalo wings (10 spicy chicken wings, hot sauce and blue cheese dip).

Southern-fried chicke

n strips

Spicy Our small-plates selection also includes our mildly spicy tandoori chicken bites – a great healthy option at just 287 Calories, served with a yoghurt & mint sauce, tomato, onion and coriander. These options are all included in our great 3-for-£10 deal*, on offer every day at your local Wetherspoon. Take advantage of this fantastic deal and enjoy our small-plates selection. Choose a trio of tasty treats – for sharing, as a snack accompaniment or for a lighter option.

Tandoori chicken bites

*Price and participation may vary per pub.

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PUB NEWS MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME, WE SAID. FIVE YEARS LATER ON, HE STILL IS…

We welcome thousands of visitors to our 45 hotels across the UK, most on short breaks or overnight visits. However, one guest who checked in at Globe Hotel, in May 2011, decided to stay and is still a resident at the hotel in King’s Lynn. Retired flight squadron leader John Fleming returned to the UK from a 24-year spell in Cyprus, deciding to stay in a hotel, rather than rent or buy a house or bungalow. Born in Northern Ireland, he moved with his family to England at a very young age and spent many years overseas, during his time in the RAF. Mr Fleming, who celebrated his 99th birthday at Globe Hotel in March, with cake and cards from all the staff, said: “I was fighting wars for a hell of a long time, but I have given that up now and am retired. “I have a chest full of medals and they weigh a tonne!”

He keeps in regular contact with his two daughters, two sons, as well as grandchildren and great grandchildren. However, his day-to-day Wetherspoon ‘family’ takes care of him very well. Hotel team leader Louise Mattocks said: “Apart from when we have been closed, for two days at Christmas time, when he goes to another hotel, Mr Fleming has been with us for five years. “He has his daily meals in the adjoining pub and his post delivered to the hotel. “After his breakfast every day, Mr Fleming sits in the hotel reception, reading his newspaper, before returning to his room for a mid-morning snooze! He is back down for lunch and occasionally pops into town to the shops.” Mr Fleming, pictured (left to right) with staff members Ashlie Tucker, Hayley Church, Lisa Lusher and Louise Mattocks, said: “It is great here at Globe Hotel. I am very happy and like living here. They feed me well and look after me; I wouldn’t accept anything less!”

WE’RE BACKING HIGH STREETS, IN EVERY CORNER OF THE LAND

Wetherspoon has backed the great British high street by giving its support to the High Street Pledge.

The High Street Pledge, undertaken by the Future High Street Forum, enables government and the retail sector to work more closely together identifying the problems facing high streets. By making the pledge, Wetherspoon aims to increase employment opportunities in local communities with renewed pride in high streets, making them desirable places to shop, as well as achieving greater inward investment, improved long-term footfall and jobs growth. Wetherspoon’s personnel and legal director, Su Cacioppo, said: “We are pleased to give our support for this excellent initiative. 24 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

“Supporting high streets is a key part of our business strategy – and we back the formation of a local business-led partnership for every high street where we operate. “Wetherspoon will recognise and celebrate local achievements, in order to restore national pride in our high streets.” Brigid Simmonds, British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive and chairman of Local Partnerships on the Future High Streets Forum said: “With Wetherspoon pubs on so many of our high streets, it is great to see the company signing the pledge. “Pubs have a vital role to play in town centres and, where all local retailers work together, it really makes a difference.”

NEWS

CAR PARK BROUGHT TO LIFE FOR MARKET OF THE MAKERS

The Francis Newton is the venue for a new monthly local market.

Held in the pub car park every third Saturday of the month, the S10 Market at the Sheffield outlet features a hand-picked selection from the very best local artisan food producers from across the Peak District and South Yorkshire. As well as local food, stall holders also offer local handmade and hand-picked gifts, homewares and craft artisans, haberdashery, the best hand-sourced second-hand and up-cycled fashion and furniture. Live music is also part of the S10 Market shopping experience, with up to five live music acts per market day. Andy Woolley, pub manager at The Francis Newton, said: “We are already a community pub, and this monthly event aims to bring together the very best which our local producers can offer, for the local community.” Pictured (left to right); Dave Wherrett (Sweet Treetz), pub manager Andy Woolley, Clare Nait-Ahmed Groom (SussiBlue) and regular customers Lisa Mellor and Nik Atkinson.

l More information is available on the market website: S10Market.co.uk

EGGHEADS FROM WEATHERFIELD FINANCIAL LEFT SHELL-SHOCKED TO WETHERSPOON

Actor Johnny Briggs MBE swapped The Rovers Return for The Posset Cup, when the new pub opened in February. The former Coronation Street star, better known for his role as Mike Baldwin (1974–2006) in the long-running television soap opera, attended the official opening of the new Wetherspoon pub in Portishead.

Finance team members at Wetherspoon’s head office, in Watford, competed against one another in an eggdecorating competition in the week leading up to Easter.

Johnny, pictured pouring a pint of Guinness with pub manager Emma Simpson, lives in the Somerset town.

The winning entry is pictured.

Emma said: “When we were preparing to open the pub, Wetherspoon’s training staff literally bumped into Johnny in the town and asked if he would like to come along to the opening.

It was made by Kerrie Greaves, John Walters, Ketan Mistry, Claire Brown, Sylvia Sumner, Gareth Hedges and Bob Stables – from the operations/staff costs finance team.

“He accepted the invitation and is now a regular customer at The Posset Cup, often bringing family members in for a drink or bite to eat.”

Organiser Simon Hughes, head of finance, said: “It was all great fun – and the entries were of a high level; however, the winning entry was egg-ceptional!” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 25

FOOD

MEAT FREE? YES. DAIRY FREE? YES. ENTIRELY FREE? NO, BUT GREAT VALUE Stand-alone menu offers tasty vegetarian and vegan options

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our local Wetherspoon now offers a stand-alone menu, for vegetarian and vegan meals, ‘your menu your choice’.

If ordered without naan bread our sweet potato curry is suitable for vegans. This can be upgraded to a larger meal on Thursday's Curry Club, with extra bhajis and samosas.

Although still listed and marked clearly on our main menu, this new and separate list provides details of all of our range of dishes, suitable for vegetarians and vegans, without the fuss and searching.

The simple authenticity of our pasta pomodoro dish offers a healthy and tasty pasta meal – our tomato with a twist.

With some of our options registered with The Vegan Society (www.vegansociety.com), the new menu is a clear and concise collection, which includes an extensive range of small plates, deli deals, pub classics and pastas, as well as starters, sharers, sides and desserts.

Twist The Mediterranean tomatoes used include whole cherry tomatoes – which help to provide a very sweet, fresh-tasting sauce – coating the egg free spirals of giant fusilli (Italian for ‘twists’) – tomato with a twist.

Among the main meals are two delicious choices, suitable for both vegetarian and vegan customers – our pasta pomodoro, as well as our sweet potato, chickpea & spinach curry. The curry is a dish of sweet potato, fried and tossed in a rich coconut sauce, with chickpeas and spinach, which delivers a healthy and tasty option and is also under five per cent fat. The recipe draws on influences from the coastal regions of India and fuses the flavours of numerous herbs and spices, including fennel, fenugreek, coriander and turmeric.

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High in flavour, yet low in Calories (428 Cal), this dish takes its name from its star ingredient, as pomodoro is the Italian word for tomato

Other ingredients include olive oil, basil and black pepper, while slowly-fried garlic adds its distinctive taste. The olive oil imparts its own flavour to the sauce, adding to the texture and helping the sauce to coat the pasta. A simple, enjoyable, tasty and healthy meal, for vegetarians and vegans. Just add an included drink, from our club range, and this Wetherspoon favourite, at under 500 Calories, ticks every box.

l Keep your eye out for the vegan trademark, on future menus, next to those dishes registered as vegan friendly.

NEWS

GLENN AND RAT PACK FOLLOW WISDOM’S ROUTE TO WALES

Pictured (left to right) are friends and fellow entertainers Mike Martin, Glenn Ford and Keith Simmons, somewhere on the A4 near Heathrow airport, heading for a Wetherspoon pub. However, the Wetherspoon in question is The Gatekeeper, in Cardiff, 170 miles away in Wales. The trio completed their mammoth charity walk, from London’s Paddington to Cardiff, in seven days, all in aid of Grand Order of Water Rats Charities Fund and emulating the same trek endured by Glenn’s hero, Sir Norman Wisdom, in 1929.

Glenn, the world’s number-one Norman Wisdom tribute artist, raised more than £10,000 in 2015, on the same charity walk. He had completed the whole journey on his own, setting off on what would have been Norman’s 100th birthday, 4 February 2015, from the old Wisdom family home in Paddington, and walking the whole route, in character, arriving six days later. The destination, The Gatekeeper, was once the old Hippodrome Theatre. Norman himself had turned up there, aged 14, in search of work, having taken

nearly a fortnight to trudge the same long and winding roads. This year, Glenn was joined by members of the Grand Order of Water Rats show business charity Mike and Keith, and their aim is to exceed the previous fundraising total. It currently stands at £6,000.

l If you would like to help them to reach that target, by making a donation, send a cheque made out to GOWR Charities Fund to: GOWR, 328 Grays Inn Rd, London, WC1X 8BZ

OPERA HOUSE DOES WHAT IT WAS BORN TO DO

Once again, Wetherspoon's pub, Opera House, hosted a live stage production, performed by the touring Merry Opera Company. A sold-out audience enjoyed two performances of Puccini’s La bohème, in the former opera house venue in Tunbridge Wells, with many customers opting for a pre-show dining experience. The Sunday matinée or evening show could be viewed from the balcony or in boxes and stalls, as the pub was once again transformed back to its original life, for the annual opera event. The new 2016 production of La bohème, by Giacomo Puccini, was directed by Christopher Cowell and performed in English by The Merry Opera Company. The romantic opera, sparkling with merriment (yet rich in pathos), is a tale of a lost key, a candle and a warm heart. It tells the story of Rodolfo and Mimi’s exuberant and despairing love affair, set among the cafés and student lodgings of the Latin Quarter, in Paris. Joseph Nicholls, pub manager at Opera House, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Merry Opera Company back to the pub, with their new production. “Both performances were, once again, excellent and enthusiastically enjoyed by our loyal and appreciative customers.”

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The Mayor of Wakefield, Councillor June Cliffe MBE, and pub manager Sarah Heppinstall at The Glass Blower, in Castleford. Back (left to right) are Gareth Brookes, Russ Coyne, mayor’s consort Jack Cliffe, Alex Nino de Guzman and Caroline Thompson

WHAT SUP? OUR FESTIVAL BRINGS 50 BEERS TO YOU A

ward-winning ales and overseas brews were among the 50 festival beers enjoyed by Wetherspoon’s customers across the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

Once again, our invited international brewers reproduced their recipes right here in the UK, thanks to our friends at Caledonian, Everards, Wadworth, Adnams and Banks’s.

In addition, the festival featured new, seasonal and speciality beers, including a chocolate beer, wheat beer, cask lager, fruit porter, rye beer and spiced beer, as well as a beer brewed with peated malt.

The Wetherspoon 17-day spring real-ale festival once again brought together a collection of fantastic beers, including a star-studded line-up of award-winners.

We welcomed our overseas visitors – from Italy, the Netherlands, Australia, the Republic of Ireland and the USA – to produce their five fabulous festival beers.

A total of 11 Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Great British Beer Festival 2015 medal-winners was among the selection, including champion speciality beer 2015 Titanic Plum Porter (4.9% ABV).

The international offerings were Bravo Four Point (Devils Backbone, USA), Pacific (Thunder Road, Australia), O’Hara’s JDW Irish Red (Carlow, Republic of Ireland), Amsterdam Blonde (Brouwerij ’t IJ, Netherlands) and Bibock (Birrificio Italiano, Italy).

Festival organiser Rob Davies said: “We promised our customers a superb range of award-winning ales, together with some great beers from overseas and many others from brewers across the UK  – and we delivered that promise.

The others were Barnsley Bitter (Acorn), Best Bitter (Pheasantry), Boltmaker (Timothy Taylor), Black (Williams Bros), Explorer (Adnams), Darwin’s Origin (Salopian), Ruby Mild (Rudgate), Port Stout (Hanlons), Triple Chocoholic (Saltaire) and Revelation (Dark Star).

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As well as the award-winning and overseas ales, there were numerous beers brewed exclusively for Wetherspoon and available in our pubs for the first time.

“Once again, our twice-yearly beer offering was a huge success and, as the reputation of the festival continues to grow, we are already working hard to plan our autumn event.”

REAL ALE FESTIVAL

Pictured at The Standing Order, in Derby, are staff members (back row, left to right) Sheenie Dunlop, Tarnia Hibberd, Vicky Warden, Ashley Marshall, Ben Burns, Lauren Munroe and Sam Swift. Front (left to right) are Abbey McTeer, Stacey Brace and Vicky Hodgson Graham Clarke, from the Ripley Morris Men, samples a well-earned pint at The Standing Order, Derby, following a dancing display

Duty manager Goncalo ‘Gonzo’ Baptista welcomes Reg Walters (left) and Darren Wilson (right), from Isle of Skye Brewing Co. to The Counting House, in Glasgow

Mayor of Harrogate, councillor Nigel Simms, enjoys the first pint of the festival at The Winter Gardens, in Harrogate – with Mayoress Lynn Simms and shift leader Nikita Hudson

Shift managers Meghan Fleischhack and Henry Linn at The Sir Henry Tate, in Chorley. The pub served all 50 beers Amy Proctor, from Wharfe Bank Brewery, with customers Ian Street (left) and George Heppenstall, at the Becketts Bank meet-the-brewer event, in Leeds

Customers at The Moon & Bell, in Loughborough, are served festival pints by (left to right) bar associates Anthony Moon and Matthew Way and shift manager Reece Chapman

Behind the bar at The Paramount, in Manchester, are shift leader Aaron Murray (left) and team leader Dave Walker

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Pub manager Alistair Lane at Union Rooms, in Newcastle upon Tyne, with bar associate Amy Green

Duty managers Mike Taylor and Amy Stedman (front) with colleagues and customers at The Union Rooms, in Plymouth

At The Commercial Rooms, in Bristol, shift manager Jess Ray serves three third-of-a-pint festival ales to customer Denis Gorange

Pub manager Martin Tubby (right) is pictured with duty manager Andrew Thompson and bar associate Georgina Wadsley as regular customer Dave Cleverley checks out the festival ales at The Bell Hotel, in Norwich

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Shift manager Elliot Brown, flanked by bar associates Sam Willmott (left) and Sam Gale, serves a festival pint to a customer at The Four Candles, Oxford

Kitchen manager Kamil Boraczewski enjoys a festival pint, on his day off at The Wibbas Down Inn. Behind the bar, at the pub in Wimbledon, are (left to right) team leader Akrum Shiref, bar associate Nigel Williams and deputy manager Will Cowper

Shift manager Dana Zuravlova and bar associate Tom Peck are ready to serve the festival ales at The Trent Bridge Inn, in Nottingham

Managers from pubs in and around Portsmouth gather for the festival launch at The Lord Palmerston (Southsea), where all 50 beers were being served. Left to right are Anthony Jobe (The Isambard Kingdom Brunel), Emma Carrodus (The First Post), Chris Cooper (The Sir John Baker), James Hardman (The Lord Palmerston), Phil Walter-Nelson (The Trafalgar), Chris Read (The John Jacques) and Mike Desmond (The Sir Alec Rose)

The real Italian coffee

99p EACH

large filter coffee or tea

F I LT E R C O F F E E AVA I L A B L E U N T I L 2 P M This take-away offer does not include free refills.

Price and participation may vary per pub. Subject to local licensing restrictions and availability at participating free houses. Photography is for guidance only. J D Wetherspoon PLC reserves the right to withdraw/change offers (without notice), at any time. See main menu for additional details of our terms and conditions.

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NOW OPEN ●

PORTISHEAD

THE POSSET CUP

The history of a Somerset town is recalled in the name of Wetherspoon’s new pub The Posset Cup, located in a brandnew residential, retail and leisure development in Portishead. Portishead is situated at the head of a sheltered river, by the shore of the Severn Estuary. Recorded in the Domesday Book, it is known locally as ‘Posset’. Pub manager Emma Simpson is pictured centre with (left to right) duty manager Nik Pipe and shift leader Tom Coleman, as well as vice chair Mark Stallard and chairman Adrian Green, both from Portishead Town Football Club (nicknamed Posset). Posset Pieces is a series of publications about the town’s history – and Shakespeare mentions ‘posset’ in his plays. Originally a dessert enriched by alcohol, it was used as a medicinal remedy, served in a two-handled cup. The new pub features one bar, as well as a beer garden to the front and side of the premises. There is also a feature staircase for access to the first floor. The pub’s design is centred on the opulent Victorian era and travel in this period via paddle steamers, with Portishead being a departure point for day trippers and travellers. There are large feature lights, in the main customer area, replicating the paddle wheels, as well as the individual paddles. There is also a bespoke coffee table, made from the trunk of Dame Clara Butt, a renowned singer who was educated locally. Unit 3, Mustad Way, Portishead, Bristol, Somerset, BS20 7QZ 32 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Wetherspoon has opened more new pubs in recent months and will be opening additional outlets throughout 2016 and beyond. For the latest new openings: jdwetherspoon.com Do you know of a property which would make a great Wetherspoon? Then, let us know... Contact our acquisitions team: E: [email protected] T: 01923 477725

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BRIDPORT

THE GREYHOUND The Greyhound has reopened its doors as a pub and hotel, following a development project costing in excess of £1.5 million.

Pub manager Kaye Hill is pictured with Mayor of Bridport Councillor Sandra Brown and town crier John Collingwood at the official reopening. The pub in Bridport, which first opened as a Wetherspoon in 1999, has undergone a complete refurbishment – and a new hotel has been added to the site. The Greyhound now offers a 15-bedroom hotel, on the first and second floors of the building, above the pub. There are seven double, five family and three twin/ zip-link rooms. Two pairs of these can be interconnected. Each of the rooms features an en suite bathroom, tea- and coffeemaking facilities, hair dryer, flatscreen television with Freeview TV and unlimited free Wi-Fi, as well as digital air-conditioning and temperature control. The rooms and hallways are decorated with artwork produced by pupils from St Marys Primary School, in Bridport. There are also meeting-room facilities, located on the first floor. The pub has been refurbished and completely redecorated, with new carpet, furniture and a new layout, as well as a new-look beer garden at the rear of the premises. Kaye said: “We are delighted with the new-look pub – and the brandnew 15-bedroom hotel is also a wonderful addition to the outlet." There has been an inn on this site since the 13th century. It is said to have got its name in Tudor times, when the silver greyhound was the badge of the royal messenger. In 1851, The Greyhound was billed as ‘Commercial Inn, Greyhound Corn Exchange, Excise Office’ while, in 1910, the building’s exterior displayed the words ‘The Greyhound Hotel’. 2 East Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3LF www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 33

N0W OPEN ●

E A ST K I L B R I D E

THE HAY STOOK

Wetherspoon has opened its latest outlet in Scotland. The Hay Stook is situated in Princes Mall, at East Kilbride Shopping Centre.

Pub manager David McAuley is pictured (second left) with three representatives from East Kilbride Football Club, as well as a local darts player, at the official ribbon-cutting opening event. Pictured (left to right) are defender Scott Stevenson, manager Billy Ogilvie, BDO world darts player Ross ‘the boss’ Montgomery and goalkeeper Jacob Kean. The Hay Stook is at the Brouster Gate entrance to Princes Mall, one of six malls in Scotland’s ‘largest undercover shopping centre’. Originally, the centre was two parades of shops open to the elements, one of which was Princes Street, redeveloped as Princes Mall in 1984. The shops were the focal point of the ‘New Town’ of East Kilbride, officially opened by Prime Minister Harold MacMillan on 1 May 1959. The New Town was built on 6,000 acres of open countryside, replacing hedgerows, hayfields and harvest stooks – the sheaves set upright in fields to dry. The pub features one bar, as well as a covered beer garden (non-smoking area) to the front of the premises. 26–36 Princes Avenue, East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, G74 1JU

34 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

NOW OPEN

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BEVERLEY

THE CROSS KEYS Pub manager Emma Badham is pictured with the Mayor of Beverley, Councillor Peter Astell (and also with colleagues), at the opening of her new pub in Beverley. The company has spent £1.81 million developing the pub, on the site of a former pub, retaining the name – The Cross Keys. The grade II listed building, dating from the mid 1760s, stands facing Old Waste, a short stretch of road leading into Market Place. In 1770, the ‘public house known by the sign of the cross keys’ was advertised for sale in the York Courant newspaper. The local trade directory of 1791 states that coaches ran from The Cross Keys Inn to nearby Hull. In 1809, the inn was sold for £1,000.

In 1889, the Beverley Guardian reported that The Cross Keys Hotel had a commercial room, four bedrooms and domestic quarters on the ground floor, with cellars below, along with seven bedrooms on the first floor. There was also stabling for 20 horses, with room for another 30 in adjoining stables. The pub, which is on two floors, features a beer garden to the rear of the premises. Its traditional elegant design, with heritage paint tones and parquet timber flooring, reflects the building’s historical background and the surrounding area. Classic brass chandeliers make a striking centre piece, while the eclectic mix of upholstered furniture gives it an elegant look. There are historical photos and images of local scenes on display, as well as original commissioned artwork by local artist Gary Saunt. 6–8 Lairgate, Beverley, East Riding of Yorkshire, HU17 8EE

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 35

NOW OPEN

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BEDFORD

THE PILGRIM’S PROGRESS

Pub and hotel managers Mark and Dawn Judd are pictured (centre) with the Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, and staff at the opening of The Pilgrim’s Progress, in Bedford. The pub, which opened in 1997, had been closed since December 2015 for a £3.5-million pub redevelopment to take place, plus the building of a new hotel. The redevelopment of the pub included a full refurbishment and redecoration, as well as a new layout. It also features a new-look beer garden and balcony at the rear of the premises. The 31-bedroom hotel is located on the first, second and third floors of the building, above the pub. There is also a specially adapted ‘changing places’ WC in the pub, for people with disabilities, as well as those unable to use standard accessible toilets. The hotel rooms can accommodate double, twin or family occupancy, each with an en suite bathroom. There are also four rooms for those guests requiring disabled access and facilities, including wet room facilities. All three floors of the hotel are lift accessible. Among the rooms are five deluxe family suites/feature bedrooms which sleep four (two adults and two children), including a corner suite on the top floor. The bathroom, in the turret-style space in this feature room, has a free-standing claw-foot bath. 42 Midland Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1QB

36 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

SALADS

Chicken, avocado & bacon salad

A SUMMER OF SALAD DAYS Signal your virtue, while you stimulate your senses with our tasty and healthy meal options

E

njoy a tempting salad from our menu this summer. They all offer a fantastic, healthy and tasty option, as well as superb Wetherspoon value, with an inclusive drink.

Salmon If you prefer fish to meat, our salmon salad offers a flavoursome and healthy dish, with one of the nation’s favourite fish as the star ingredient.

All of our salad dishes can be enjoyed with a drink included in the price, from our club drinks range. The selection offers a wide choice of soft, hot and alcoholic drinks, to suit all tastes and occasions.

Your salmon salad comes with a whole salmon fillet, flaked after cooking and mixed with salad leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumber and dressing – for a great taste combination.

Our chicken, avocado & bacon salad, the most recent addition to our salad selection, has already become a popular choice. This delicious combination provides two of your 5-a-day and, at 502 Calories, it is healthy and filling and a tasty and fresh alternative for your lunch or dinner. Bacon A grilled and sliced 100-per-cent chicken breast is joined by a whole creamy Mexican Hass avocado and two rashers of grilled back bacon. The perfect combination is served on a bed of mixed leaves, tomato, cucumber and red onion, with a balsamic vinaigrette low-fat dressing. Containing more than 20 vitamins and minerals, avocado is a wonderfully tasty ‘superfood’, with only 62 Calories per half. It is low in saturated fats, sugar and sodium.

Salmon salad

Sustainably sourced, our open-sea-farmed salmon allows you to enjoy all of the goodness and health benefits, including omega 3, proteins and amino acids, in the knowledge that wild fish stocks are continuing to recover. Chicken Our American classic, chicken Caesar salad, continues to be a firm favourite and, at just 408 Calories, is another healthy menu choice, packed with fresh ingredients to tempt the taste buds. We use Cos midi leaves, adding taste, texture and extra crunch to the authentic dish. With a generous helping of Caesar dressing, the leaves have plenty of tasty coating, together with the grilled chicken, croûtons and a good sprinkling of Parmesan flakes, for a rich, cheesy topping. You can enjoy this classic favourite as it comes – or add some bacon for an extra topping. Why not choose a salad option today, together with an inclusive drink of your choice, and enjoy all the health benefits, great taste and great value of Wetherspoon? Chicken Caesar salad

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 37

NEWS

‘SUMPTUOUS’ STOP-OFF ON A YORKSHIRE WALK A new guide, CAMRA's Yorkshire Pub Walks, features a Wetherspoon pub. The traveller’s guide to some of the best walking and finest pubs in Yorkshire includes ‘Wetherspoon’s sumptuous Winter Gardens … undeniably another superb conversion by JDW’. The Winter Gardens, in Harrogate, is featured in Walk 7 – Knaresborough to Harrogate via The Nidd Gorge. One of Wetherspoon's most spectacular pubs, it opened in 2002 and takes it name from the building's original purpose. The Winter Gardens were opened in 1897, by the Duke of Cambridge, as part of the Royal Baths, so that visitors to the town could relax and stroll in any weather. The book, by Bob Steel, has the walks grouped geographically and, in its 176 pages, explores some of the region’s fascinating historical and literary heritage, as well as its thriving brewing scene.

l Available now at shop.camra.org.uk priced £9.99.

20 YEARS

Duty manager David Williams at The Winter Gardens, Harrogate

l PORTSMOUTH

THE ISAMBARD HAPPY BIRTHDAYS KINGDOM BRUNEL

Staff at The Isambard Kingdom Brunel donned special ‘Happy Birthday IKB’ T-shirts to mark the pub’s 20th birthday.

The pub, in Portsmouth, was decked out in birthday balloons and banners for the double-decade milestone event – which also raised £120 for CLIC Sargent via charity competitions, games and a bake sale, as well as a £180 to support people with PURA Syndrome. Pub manager Anthony Jobe, who has run the pub for the past two years, said: “It was lovely to celebrate with our regular customers and raise funds, in the process, for two great charities.”

18

YEARS

l OLDHAM

THE UP STEPS INN

Customers at The Up Steps Inn enjoyed a celebration cake and a pint of ‘18th birthday’ John Smith’s to mark the pub’s milestone.

David Morgan, who has managed the Oldham pub for the past three years, is pictured with bar associates Sam Holt and Kyle Latham. David said: “The regulars were delighted to toast our birthday, on the house, with the beer from the photographs, helped down with a slice of cake.”

38 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAYS ● ● SWANSEA

THE POTTERS WHEEL

20 YEARS

The Potters Wheel celebrated its 20th birthday with a showcase of locally produced food and drink. The pub in Swansea, which opened in March 1996, marked the special occasion with a variety of suppliers from across Wales offering samples and tasting sessions for their products.

The Welsh treats on offer included beers from Swansea-based Boss Brewing, as well as Celt Experience in Caerphilly. There were tasty samples from Authentic Curry Company, based in Aberdare, alongside Penderyn Welsh whisky. Staff and customers are pictured, some dressed in fancy-dress costumes for the Hooch-themed party, and the pub was decorated in a 90s retro style. Pub manager Louise Blackwell (pictured, front), who has managed The Potters Wheel for the past two years, said: “The event was a lot of fun, with staff and customers joining together to celebrate 20 years in style.”

2

YEARS

l B I S H O P ’ S STO R T F O R D

THE PORT JACKSON

Pub manager Jo Salter and her team at The Port Jackson donned pink fancy dress to raise money and awareness for CLIC Sargent.

The fundraising event, to mark the Bishop’s Stortford pub’s second birthday, amassed £105 for the charity, thanks to a cake raffle and generous donations by customers.

l M A E ST E G

THE SAWYER’S ARMS

1

YEAR

The Sawyer’s Arms, in Maesteg, marked its first birthday with a showcase of locally produced food and drink. Customers enjoyed Welsh product-tastings, including a locally made birthday cake, as well as party games and entertainment from a local choir.

Cider maker Andrew Gronow (pictured left) brought samples from Gwynt Y Ddraig, The Welsh Cider & Perry Company based in Pontypridd. Among the ciders on offer were Orchard Gold, Black Dragon and Winter Glo. Huw Barnes (pictured right), technical director from Aberdare-based Wetherspoon supplier Authentic Curries & World Foods, also hosted a curry-tasting session. Also pictured (left to right) are bar associates Jonathan Morgans and Lauren Cooper, with shift manager Jason Cocks.

l H I TC H I N

THE ANGEL VAULTS INN

1

YEAR

Pub manager Amy Smith is pictured with members of her team, together with town business manager Keith Hoskins MBE, marking the first birthday of her pub.

Amy, who runs The Angel Vaults Inn, launched the beer festival a day early, to coincide with the celebrations at the pub in Hitchin. A selection of 21 of the 50 festival ales was on offer at the launch, with a further 29 served throughout the 17-day event. Shift manager Fran Lewis made the celebration cakes, while shift leader Dan Northend, team leader Kevina Smith and bar associate Jordan Grady put their art skills to the test – with face-painting for the youngsters. www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 39

ALL HAIL THE ALE

G L A S G OW

A FLYING START FOR AIRPORT ALE Customers at The Sanderling can enjoy a special-edition premium Scottish ale – and support local charities into the bargain. Scottish brewery Strathaven Ales has produced an IPA, called GLA – 50 (3.8% ABV) to celebrate the 50th anniversary year of Glasgow airport, where the pub is situated. The ale will be served throughout this anniversary year, with five pence from the sale of every pint being donated to the airport chaplain’s charity, half from the brewery and half from pub manager Barry Martin. Barry, who approached Strathaven to create the special ale, said: “The chaplain selects a different charity every year; in the airport’s 50th year, I thought that it would be a nice gesture to help him out. “We are aiming to serve approximately 5,500 pints throughout the year.” Barry is pictured with airport chaplain Commissioner Keith Banks.

Keith and his Salvation Army chaplaincy team offer practical support to the 30,000 passengers who pass through the airport every day. Their mission is to be there for anyone who needs its service, irrespective of denomination, faith or creed. Keith has been in his post for nearly seven years, but has served as a Salvation Army officer in different parts of the world for almost 53 years.

He said: “Thank you Barry, Wetherspoon and Strathaven for this generous gesture. I am delighted that they have chosen to support the Teddy Bear Foundation, my nominated charity at Glasgow Airport for 2016. “Many children with special needs throughout Scotland will benefit from the fundraising which sales of this product will bring.” Glasgow Airport, voted both Scottish Airport of the Year and UK Airport of the Year, in 2015, with 8.7 million passengers travelling through its doors last year, was officially opened by HM The Queen on 27 June 1966.

FLEET

CAMRA’S EXPLORERS FIND ELUSIVE BREWS A Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) social event, at The Prince Arthur, was attended by members from the local Surrey & Hants Borders and the SE Berkshire branches.

Pub manager Bart Longier and cellar manager Bob Long (pictured right) hosted the event at the pub in Fleet, attracting around 60 real-ale enthusiasts. Fleet resident Andy Parker (pictured centre), owner and head brewer at Elusive Brewing, was at the event for a meet-the-brewer presentation and tasting session.

Customers also scored each of the four ales, with Level Up the most popular on the night, achieving an average score of 8.2 out of 10.

An American red ale, brewed with six malt types and five American hops, Level Up is now produced commercially by Elusive Brewing, at 5.0% ABV. Stephen Parker (pictured left), leader of Hart District Council, together with several members from Hart District Council and Fleet Town Council, was also there to support The Prince Arthur and Andy’s new business venture.

Customers were able to sample four Bart said: “It was a fantastic night, with so prototype real ales, home brewed in Andy’s many local people supporting Andy in his house, since commercial production at his new microbrewery venture. brand-new microbrewery, in Finchampstead, “Thanks to everyone who came along and helped had not started before the event. to make the event a resounding success.”

40 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

ALL HAIL THE ALE R OT H E R H A M

A BREW FROM OUT OF THE BLUE(COAT) Managers and staff members from pubs in and around Sheffield, Doncaster and Rotherham helped to brew an exclusive beer to be served at their pubs across the region.

“My kitchen manager suggested the name Golden Spoon, but, in the end, we thought ‘silver’ was more appropriate to Sheffield – where Stancill is based – with its history of cutlery-manufacturing.

Pub manager Garry Carr, who runs The Bluecoat (Rotherham), was the driving force behind the idea for the one-off ale, produced by Sheffield-based Stancill Brewery.

“The beer was very well received. It absolutely flew out of here at The Bluecoat and I have had no complaints from elsewhere!

Garry said: “We have really good relations with the guys at Stancill and order their beers regularly. In fact, one of their directors, Adam Hague, was once a bar associate at The Joseph Bramah, in Barnsley.

“We are hopefully looking to brew another beer in the near future, if we can get enough pubs on board again with the idea.”

“They agreed to team up with us to brew an exclusive beer, Silver Spoon (4.3% ABV), a pale hoppy ale which was served at pubs across our region as far south as Nottingham, Heanor and Alfreton, as well as in Sheffield and Leeds.

Pictured top at Stancill Brewery are (left to right) Kirsty Foster (Waggon and Horses, Sheffield), Alex Crowe (The Red Lion, Doncaster), Stephen Fryer (also Waggon and Horses), Stancill’s head brewer Dean Pleasant, Ciaran Baker (The Rhinoceros, Rotherham), Liam O’Sullivan (The Bluecoat, Rotherham) and Brandon Lee (The Francis Newton, Sheffield).

PETERBOROUGH

ALL HANDS TO THE PUMPS AT 503-BEER DRAPER’S ARMS

SOUTH SHIELDS

Customers visiting The Draper’s Arms, throughout 2015, enjoyed a plethora of real ales during the year. Pub manager Chris Parkes (pictured) served no fewer than 503 beers, from 165 breweries, on his five everchanging guest ale pumps at the Peterborough outlet. That all adds up to 138,000 pints of real ale last year, in just one pub! Shift manager and ale enthusiast Kara Williams, who is also the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Peterborough and District branch young members’ secretary, helped Chris in his quest for unusual and varied ales. Chris, who has managed the pub for 11 years, said: “We have a great relationship with several breweries and strive to provide a great choice and variety for our customers. “We also welcome suggestions from our regulars, although we certainly source plenty more than we are asked for.”

Among the breweries showcased throughout the year were wonderful beers from Brewster’s Brewery and Newby Wyke Brewery (both based in Grantham), unusual ales from Bexar County Brewery and Oakham Ales (both in Peterborough) and brews from The Grainstore Brewery (Oakham). Chris is always on the lookout for new local breweries and is delighted to have started serving beers from Xtream Ales (Whittlesey). Chris said: “Peterborough has a few locally renowned real-ale pubs, and one in particular was regularly promoting how many beers they had on offer throughout the year. “I am quite competitive, so thought I would tally up our total for the year, and it turned out that we beat them by around 150 ales!”

WOOD PINTS AND WOOD HALVES AT WOULDHAVE

The Wouldhave was the venue for a branch meeting for The Society for The Preservation of Beers from the Wood (SPBW). The pub in South Shields, managed by Darren Simpson, hosted the event for the northeast branch members (pictured) and served two real ales from ‘the wood’ for the occasion. Swedish Blonde (4.2% ABV) and Maximus (6.0% ABV), from Maxim Brewery in Houghton-le-Spring, were both served from wooden casks, each holding 72 pints and, unusually, named Violet and Roxy for the event! Shift leader Craig Bolton said: “David Brazier, regional director of South Tyneside CAMRA, asked whether we would host the event and serve the beer from wooden casks.

“The SPBW group members are real-ale enthusiasts and encourage the original-style casks. It was a brilliant evening and great to see so many CAMRA members in attendance.

“The beer didn’t really taste any different from the wooden cask, compared with the modern metal or plastic storage. However, the wooden versions are certainly higher maintenance and probably the reason why they are no longer used regularly. “However, long-term cask care wasn’t an issue on this occasion, as Maxim’s beers are a big seller in our pub – and the two were empty within 24 hours!”

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 41

ALL HAIL THE ALE L I T T L E H A M P TO N

GORGEOUS GEORGE SET FOR VIDEO STARDOM

SHEFFIELD

CRAFT FOLK GO WILD FOR HUNTSMAN’S EXOTIC HAUL Customers at The Benjamin Huntsman are spoilt for choice at the Sheffield pub’s craft bar.

Holding pub manager Jack Mlynek hosts a ‘bottle of the week’ promotion, showcasing a different craft beer every Thursday evening. As well as tasting notes on the beer, the screen in the upstairs bar area provides a presentation with information about the brewery and beer on offer every week. Customers are also able to sample before they buy. Jack, pictured, said: “We have two bars at the pub – and our top bar is dedicated to craft beer, with a choice of seven beers on draught, as well as a huge range in bottles and cans. “We are introducing our customers to different craft beers from the UK, as well as around the world, and my shift leader Phil Smith, our craft champion, is a keen enthusiast with a great knowledge of the craft beer scene.” On draught are Devils Backbone American IPA (5.2% ABV), Shipyard American Pale Ale (4.5% ABV), Stancill’s Sheffield Pilsner (5.0% ABV), Rudgate’s Jorvik Blonde (3.8% ABV), As Good As Gold (4.5% ABV) a gluten-free beer from Hambleton Ales, Bradfield’s Farmers Stout (4.5% ABV) and Liefmans (3.8% ABV) Belgian fruit beer. Phil said: “We also have 32 bottled craft beers from the UK and international brewers, among the collection.w “We have three choices from BrewDog, which all sell well, plus Lagunitas IPA (6.2% ABV) which is also extremely popular. “As well as London Lager (4.5% ABV), we also have Chocolate Porter (6.5% ABV), Wheat Beer (5.0% ABV) and Yakima Red (4.1% ABV), all from Meantime Brewing Company, but our bestseller is Founders All Day IPA (4.7% ABV). “In addition, we serve locally produced craft beer in cans, from Rooster’s Brewing Co., in Knaresborough, including Baby-faced Assassin (6.1% ABV) and Fort Smith (5.0% ABV).”

Award-winning Goldmark Craft Beers selected a Wetherspoon pub to shoot a promotional video for its newest craft lager. Brewer Mark Lehmann is pictured with pub manager Carly Richards at The George Inn, in Littlehampton, West Sussex. He set up his brewery in Arundel, just five miles from the pub, in 2013. A rock musician and ex-biochemical analyst, Mark was born in Germany, but grew up in the UK with a love for German beer and English ales. Mark started brewing at the age of 18 at home, before starting the brewery, and has hundreds of recipes. His newest release is Vertigo Craft Lager (4.8% ABV), a German Pilsener and the subject of the video-shoot. An authentic German-style Pilsener, made using the best German malts and hops, Vertigo is a fruity, balanced beer. A long fermentation and a 12-week lagering ensure a full, smooth, crisp taste. Carly said: “We already serve a selection of real ales from Goldmark – very popular local beers, as well as the new Vertigo Craft Lager on keg. So, when Mark approached us about the video-shoot, we were only too happy to help. “It is great to be able to support a local brewery and help it to showcase its products, while promoting The George Inn at the same time.” Among the Goldmark real ales served at The George Inn are American Hop Idol (4.4% ABV), Liquid Gold (4.4% ABV), Black Lion Porter (4.8% ABV), Red IPA (4.3% ABV) and Warrior (4.6% ABV).

B R I STO L

RAISING A SPECIAL GLASS TO DJ DEREK Wetherspoon paid tribute to one of its most loyal customers, DJ Derek, by serving a tribute beer at its 11 Bristol pubs. DJ Derek was a Wetherspoon enthusiast, visiting the company’s pubs in Bristol and all over the UK, while DJing at clubs into his 70s. He passed away last year. The beer, ‘Derek’ (4.8% ABV), on sale in each of the Bristol pubs, was brewed by GWB Brewery, in Hambrook Bristol, with the catchline: "Love the life you live, and live the life you love."

42 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Wetherspoon’s area manager, Gill Roberts, said: “Staff and customers at our pubs in Bristol were saddened by the death of DJ Derek – and wished to pay tribute to him.

“We discussed the idea of the real ale with his family – and they were very supportive. “Our customers raised a glass to toast Derek’s life and his love of Wetherspoon – with a pint of ‘Derek’. Two friends of D J Derek, Steve Noble (left) and Alan Wills, are pictured at The Commercial Rooms, in Bristol.

ALL HAIL THE ALE

G L A S G OW A N D E D I N B U R G H

CALEDONIAN CRAFT IN SCOTTISH CITIES Craft beer fans at two Wetherspoon pubs in Scotland were treated to a festival of brews from across the country.

The Counting House (Glasgow) and The Standing Order (Edinburgh) both hosted a craft beer event, showcasing ales from Scottish breweries. Among the beers on offer were those from Shetland-based Lerwick Brewery, including Lerwick IPA (5.0% ABV), 60° North Lager (4.8% ABV) and Skipper’s Ticket Pale Ale (4.0% ABV). Glasgow-based independent real-ale craft brewery Jaw Brew was also featured, with

its beers Reef (4.2% ABV) and Glide (4.6% ABV), along with microbrewery Barney’s Beer, from Edinburgh, and its brews Red Rye (4.5% ABV) and Volcano IPA (5.0% ABV). At The Counting House in Glasgow, duty manager Goncalo ‘Gonzo’ Baptista is pictured with Lindsay Fletcher, from Innis & Gunn, and Stuart Hepburn of Speyside Craft Brewery. Meanwhile, at the launch in Edinburgh, Isla Mercer (left) of Lerwick Brewery is pictured with customer Paula Harbig. Andrew Barnett from Barney’s Beer and Andy Hare from Jaw Beer were also at the launch to showcase their products.

DA R T M O O R

JAIL ALE BREAKS FREE, BUT ENDS UP BACK BEHIND BARS

Shift leader Sarah Parkinson

P R E STO N

GREY FRIAR SENDS OUT MESSAGE IN A BOTTLE

The Grey Friar, in Preston, hosted a five-day craft bottle festival, featuring up to 15 craft bottle beers from across Europe. The beers included Grimbergen Blonde (Belgium), BrewDog Punk IPA (Scotland), Viru Beer (Estonia) and Hopping Hog IPA (England). Pub manager Bradley Hollingsworth said: “The festival was a great way to showcase beers from small, independent brewers across Europe. “Many of the beers are not usually available at The Grey Friar – and our customers enjoyed sampling them.”

DA R T M O O R

LUCKY FEW WOOED BY DARTMOUTH BREW CREW Managers from Wetherspoon pubs in Devon were welcomed by Dartmoor Brewery for a brewery tour.

Pubs across the county regularly serve guest ales from Dartmoor Brewery, based in Princetown, Devon; however, they are set to join forces with the brewers to produce an exclusive Wetherspoon brew. The project, currently at its planning stage, will see staff members from pubs across the region help with the brew and have a say in the name, strength and taste of the new craft beer. Kelly Bullard, Dartmoor Brewery’s area sales manager for South Hams and East Devon, said: “The team at Dartmoor Brewery has been working closely with our local Wetherspoon pubs for several years and looks forward to creating a new, exclusive craft ale for them.”

Real-ale enthusiasts across the UK now have the opportunity to enjoy a beer from the heart of Dartmoor, at their local Wetherspoon pub. Previously available in only 33 outlets across Devon, Somerset and Cornwall, near to Dartmoor Brewery’s home in Princetown, Devon – Jail Ale (4.8% ABV) is now available in all pubs, initially until the end of June. The Dartmoor Brewery’s cask ale Jail Ale, with its own Jail Ale Appreciation Society following on FaceBook, is a full-bodied, deep golden brown beer, with a well-rounded flavour and a rich, moreish aftertaste. Kelly Bullard, Dartmoor Brewery’s area sales manager South Hams and East Devon, said: “For more than eight years, Dartmoor Brewery has been supplying and working closely with our local Wetherspoon pubs and we’ve been delighted with our working relationship. “Launching our flagship cask ale to all Wetherspoon pubs, across the UK, is a huge and exciting step for the brewery." www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 43

OUR PEOPLE

RYAN’S LOSS IS SIR DANIEL’S GAIN SW I N D O N

T H E S I R DA N I E L A R M S

Bar associate Ryan Beauchamp joined the team at The Sir Daniel Arms two years ago and is unrecognisable from the man who pub manager Alice Ferguson first employed.

Ryan, now 21 years old, was more than 21 stone in weight when he started his full-time job at the pub in Swindon. He has, so far, lost eight stone and says that working at the pub has changed his life. Ryan says: “When I finally realised that I was destroying my body and my chance at progressing on in life, I was 21 and a half stone. “I hate to admit this, or cause a stir about perceptions of people who are overweight (I was one of them; so, believe me, I know it first hand), but I found it extremely challenging to find work. I genuinely feel that it was because of how big I was and the way I looked. “Maybe employers found me off-putting or someone who didn’t ‘fit’ their company profile. After all, I would be representing that company. “This really knocked my confidence and I lost any minimal motivation that I had. I couldn’t even stand to look at myself in the mirror and I felt that there was no point in even trying any more. “Then came a turning point and I got a job. Finally, it felt like a whole lot of weight had been lifted off my shoulders. To feel wanted by someone felt fantastic; it really meant the world to me. “I was welcomed with open arms by the ‘Sir Dan’s family’; I don’t think they ever realised how grateful I was for them giving me a chance. “They have played a massive role in turning my life around.” Now a part-time member of staff, Ryan is set to begin a university course in sports development and management in September, with an ultimate goal of running his own gym. Ryan, pictured centre, with shift leader Jake Reeves and bar associate Emma McKinnon, said: “It was only when I got the job and started getting in a routine that I realised I would give my all into transforming my life for the better – and into a healthier well-lived one. “I discovered that I’d lost nearly two stone in the first two months of working in my new job. “The only answer I had for this weight loss was that I was constantly working and had a routine. “It was from that moment that I knew I could go one step better – and my motivation was rekindled. “I had a new goal in life and wanted to change my life for the better, thanks to Wetherspoon and everyone at The Sir Daniel Arms.” 44 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

OUR PEOPLE BURNHAM-ON-SEA

HOW OLI SOLD UP AND BOUGHT IN THE REEDS ARMS

Pub manager Oli Haskins joined Wetherspoon six years ago, when the company bought his pub and hotel to redevelop into one of its own. Born and bred in Weston-super-Mare, Oli was the fourth generation of his family to run the Cabot Court Hotel in his home town, an 88-year stewardship for the Haskins. Following the death of his father the previous year and the ever-changing market, the family sold the property – and Oli was transferred to the new company owners, Wetherspoon, as a pub manager. The premises were closed for redevelopment, reopening in July 2011 as a 21-bedroom hotel and pub, and Oli moved to Minehead for his training. He said: “I spent a year at The Duke of Wellington, learning the Wetherspoon way with pub manager Gavin Coughlin, who is now at The Cribbar, in Newquay.

Oli said: “I have been back there for a couple of events – and it was surreal at first to see just how different it is now. “It is great that the place is such a success, and I am so glad to see that, but the hotel has moved on and so have I. “I am looking to the future and hopefully with similar success to that of Cabot Court Hotel. “I was nervous at first to move from a small family-run business to a big company, but, with the Wetherspoon ethos of good quality and good value, we were trying to do the same, and with the help and support of Owen Wacker and the Wetherspoon personnel department the transition was easy for me. “I was instantly accepted as one of their own – and I am enjoying the challenge.”

“My own first pub was The Glassmaker, at Nailsea, where I spent two years and it went really well. “Thanks to the training from Gav and the great support from my area manager Paul Dixey – without both of whom I wouldn’t have come this far – I won the company’s regional ‘best newcomer award’ for the southwest, so I knew that I must have been doing something right!” Oli then moved on to The Reeds Arms, in Burnham-on-Sea, in November last year. He said: “The opportunity came up for a larger pub and a bigger challenge, so I applied for the position and was successful. “The first few months have been fine. I have been trying to implement some of my own personal touches – and we are looking forward to a busy summer.” If the position were to became vacant, would he ever consider returning to Cabot Court Hotel?

DUNFERMLINE

TROPHIES GALORE AS GUILDHALL GANG GATHERS T H E G U I L D H A L L & L I N E N E XC H A N G E

Managers and staff at The Guildhall & Linen Exchange celebrated success at an annual awards evening. Pub manager Sherrie McQueen and Wetherspoon’s area manager Sarah Kyle-Playford presented various accolades at the event to the team from the pub and hotel in Dunfermline. Shift manager Stevie Reid organised a local venue, the nearby Monarch Bar, decorating the room for the awards night, while kitchen manager Yvonne Cuthbert ensured that the trophies were ready for the lucky recipients. Staff from other Wetherspoon pubs, including The Golden Acorn (Glenrothes), The Robert Nairn (Kirkcaldy) and The Carrick Stone (Cumbernauld), provided cover, enabling the entire team to attend the occasion. Sherrie said: “It was a great night and, hopefully, the first of an annual event. It really brought the team together and highlighted just how much they are all appreciated.” The winners, pictured, back row (left to right) were kitchen associate Emily Taylor (kitchen employee of the year), Tara Bell (shift leader of the year), team leader Paddy Adamson (bar employee of the year and ‘joker’ of the year), bar associate Neil Muirhead (newcomer of the year), Sherrie McQueen (pub manager of the year) and Sarah Kyle-Playford. Front row (left to right) kitchen manager Yvonne Cuthbert (manager of the year), kitchen associate/housekeeping and cleaner Scott Hynd (employee’s employee of the year) and Duncan Ross (team leader of the year). www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 45

OUR PEOPLE C I T Y O F LO N D O N

SWORDS EVEN SHARPER AS A RESULT OF BUFFING UP THE KNIGHTS TEMPLAR

The couple has been in charge at The Knights Templar for the past 15 years now, and Jan set herself a personal goal of achieving her diploma before her milestone birthday. She said: “Gerry also had a special birthday in February, so it is quite a year for us both. He passed the diploma seven years ago, and I was keen to achieve that challenge at my age – and before I was too old!” The professional diploma in leisure retail management, run in conjunction with Leeds Beckett University, is offered to all Wetherspoon pub managers and area managers. The first in-house programme in the licensed trade, it allows employees to gain a professional qualification while working. The course, designed by Wetherspoon in conjunction with the university, is aimed at improving people and business management skills. The course modules are leadership and motivation, profitable drinksretailing, business development, financial awareness, managing legally and unlocking people potential. Jan, pictured, said: “I had been doing some courses and attending lectures and was encouraged to take the diploma. I found the courses so helpful, our tutor John Walker is very good, and a new light has opened in the pub for me. “It is a big commitment and, work wise, it is not easy. You still have to run your pub, but focus on your studies at the same time. However, I have found it so beneficial for the pub. This summer will be one of much celebration for pub manager Jan Swords. Jan, who runs The Knights Templar, in Chancery Lane, in the City of London, with husband Gerry, marks a special birthday in July. That month is also the date of her graduation, completing an advanced diploma in leisure retail management. Both from Dublin, Jan and Gerry joined Wetherspoon 23 years ago, as a management couple, initially running The White Lion of Mortimer, in West Hendon.

“Whether you have been in a pub for a long time or are new to pub management, the course is well worthwhile. I would recommend it. “It has given me a new insight into the whole business and made me think about many things that I didn’t before. “Business has already increased for us; I am more aware of the competition in the area and it has brought me more up to date with the modern way of business thinking. “There is a new regeneration project within the Holborn and Chancery Lane area; this new knowledge will definitely help us to develop and grow as a business, along with that regeneration.”

WICK

SWEEPING ALL BEFORE HER FOR 10 YEARS… THE ALEXANDER BAIN

Wetherspoon employee Margaret Robertson is pictured receiving her 10-year service certificate at The Alexander Bain. Margaret, 54, who works as a cleaning associate at the pub in Wick, collected her memento from duty manager Tiffany Murray (left) and kitchen manager Patricia Murray.

Margaret joined the team a year after the pub opened and is one of three cleaning associates who work the 7–9am shift. She is joined by Joan Irodenko and Sharon Bain on the rota. Margaret, who comes from Wick, said: “I also work at the Royal Mail sorting office in the town; around 10 years ago, my hours in that job were cut back. “The then pub manager was living near to me and we got talking one day and I mentioned that I was looking for some more work. A few weeks later, he came back to me, asking whether I might be interested in a cleaning job at the pub. “The hours fitted in well with my cleaning shift at the Royal Mail and here we are, more than 10 years later. “It is a good job and I get on well with all the team, although I don’t see too many of them on the early shift! I also pop in, from time to time, for lunch with friends – it is a fine wee pub.” 46 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Alec Beattie, Wetherspoon’s area manager for Moray & Highlands, said: “Congratulations to Margaret, who has an exemplary record of 10 years’ service and is a loyal employee.” In March 2017, Margaret will also be marking 20 years’ service at the Royal Mail.

D Ú N L AO G H A I R E

SMART SIBLINGS MAKE BIG STRIDES AT THE FORTY FOOT T H E F O R T Y F O OT

Three members of one family, who work together at The Forty Foot, are all forging a career with Wetherspoon. The Lowrie siblings, brother Scott and sisters Danielle (right) and Jennifer, are already progressing well, at the pub in Dún Laoghaire. Scott, 26, celebrated his first year at the pub in January. He has already progressed from bar associate to shift manager and is aiming higher in the company. Following his sports journalism studies in Glasgow, Scott returned home to Ireland. He said: “I thought I would work at the pub for a couple of months and then go travelling. However, after three weeks, I had the opportunity for promotion to shift leader and was selected for advancement at a manager’s recruitment forum. “Once I decided that that was what I wanted, the training started and work took over. It has been a bit of whirlwind, but, one year on, I am already a shift manager.” Danielle, 20, also joined the team at The Forty Foot as a bar associate, at the same time as Scott. Currently in her second year of studying social science at University College Dublin, she works part time at the pub, as well as full time during the holidays, and has already been promoted to team leader. Jennifer, 22, has just completed her Bachelor of Science degree in zoology at Galway University. Now with her finals complete, team leader Jennifer is swapping her part-time weekend role at the pub for a full-time career with the company. She said: “Zoology is a subject I am interested in, but I am done with science now and plan a career with Wetherspoon. I hope to progress further – we will see what happens.

“I enjoy my work at The Forty Foot, absolutely; every day is different and I like the people I work with very much. “Scott, Danielle and I are all very close. Danielle and I have worked the same shift sometimes and, when we work with Scott, he definitely challenges us! “He has done so well to achieve his promotions so far: the family is proud of him.” Scott said: “So far, things are going well for me. I would like to run my own pub at some stage, perhaps be the first in Ireland to go from bar associate to pub manager with the company.”

PENZANCE

50 YEARS AT THE BAR – RUTH IS MAID TO LAST THE TREMENHEERE

There was a very special surprise presentation for bar associate Ruth Turner, at The Tremenheere. Pub manager Marianna Brackley and her team marked a significant ‘golden jubilee’ milestone for Ruth, with Champagne and flowers, as well as a framed Certificate of Achievement at the pub in Penzance. Born and bred in Cornwall, Ruth started her working life as a barmaid in April 1966, at the age of 18. She has subsequently worked at local Cornish pubs in and around Penzance for the past 50 years. Marianna, who has run The Tremenheere for the past two years, said: “Just before Ruth joined Wetherspoon, in 2007, she thought that she would be out of work. The pub where she was employed was closing down, and her job was coming to an end. “However, Wetherspoon was recruiting at the pub in Penzance, so she applied for a job, was successful and able to carry on what she loves doing. She has been with us for more than nine years now – and counting. “Ruth is an absolute character; known by the entire community here in Penzance, she is loved by everyone. “At 68 and still working full time, she puts some of the younger members of the team to shame! “She has worked with many of the managers who run the pubs across Cornwall and has seen so many changes to the licensed trade during the course of the past 50 years. “Ruth is a real inspiration, a Cornish gem, who never stops singing! Long may her pub career continue.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 47

OUR PEOPLE G AT W I C K A I R P O R T

AIRPORT ANGELS GIVE YOU A FLYING START T H E R E D L I O N A N D T H E F LY I N G H O R S E

Travellers visiting our pubs at Gatwick Airport receive a warm Wetherspoon welcome from our small band of welcome hosts. The role, specific to our airport pubs, is an essential and muchneeded part of the service, as, generally, time is of the essence when departing from a busy airport. Nanda Passos, Anna Balkizas and Ana Ferreira, all aged between 45 and 55, work at The Red Lion, in the international departure lounge at Gatwick’s North Terminal. Pub manager Laura Beal, who has worked for the company for 11 years, most recently at The Red Lion since it reopened three summers ago, said: “The role of our welcome hosts is to meet and greet customers, when they enter the pub, help them to find tables, chat and answer questions.” Anna joined the company in May 2006, starting at the Lloyds No.1 at Gatwick, before moving to The Red Lion in 2011. She has worked with Laura at both pubs. Nanda and Ana both joined the team last year, although Nanda has worked in a meet-and-greet role at the airport for several years. All three speak more than one language, with Ana speaking five. Laura said: “They are all particularly knowledgeable about our menu, to help to speed up our service, as well as all aspects of the pub and airport building. “Our hosts are required to direct travellers to flight screens, departure gates and toilet facilities, as well as to help to ensure that their Wetherspoon visit is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. “We also issue ‘reserved’ table signs, for those passengers travelling alone, to assist with table allocation for food-ordering purposes.” It takes a particular person to be successful in the welcome-host role – and Laura knows exactly what to look for. She said: “Our welcome hosts need to be approachable, friendly, smiley and welcoming; they should be able to put our customers at ease and help them to relax before their holiday.”

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Nanda, Anna and Ana take it in turns to ensure that at least one host is on duty all day, every day. Some members of Laura’s bar associate team are also trained to step in, when required. At our other busy airport site, in the South Terminal, a trio of older workers is employed as welcome hosts, at The Flying Horse. Michael Appleton and Martin Holohan both work the morning shift until 1pm, while John ‘Johnno’ Wright is on duty from noon, for the afternoon slot. Johnno, 66, joined the staff in November 2006, having previously been an ambulance driver and school-crossing patrol. Martin, 65, joined a year later, with former care home manager Michael, 78, arriving on the team last year. Martin, who has been in the licensed trade since 1982, said: “I was hoping to retire, but, unfortunately, my pension wasn’t sufficient, so I decided to work for another couple of years. I liked it so much that I decided to stay and, in February next year, I will celebrate 10 years’ service with Wetherspoon.” Originally from Coventry, Martin previously ran pubs in the south of England at Crawley, Poole and in Dorset. He said: “The most important thing about the job is the customers and, as well as all the visitors travelling through, we have many earlymorning regulars who commute weekly. “I enjoy my job and work with a lovely young team, which helps to keep me young.” Sarah Williamson, Wetherspoon’s senior recruitment and training manager, said: “Our welcome hosts play a key part in the success of our airport pubs, with their guidance and customer service skills. “We actively encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to apply for roles across the company. “We have found that having a diverse range of employees better reflects our customer base, and in this instance the welcome hosts in particular have proven to be valuable members of our airport pub teams.” l Pictured above (left to right): Ana Ferreira, Michael Appleton, Anna Balkizas, John Wright and Martin Holohan

KOPPARBERG: THE COOL TASTE OF SCANDINAVIA Wetherspoon’s pubs gave this Swedish pear cider its UK début, and now they’re giving British drinkers more flavours to savour

F

or the past 35 years, Wetherspoon has been trail-blazing in the pub industry.

Innovative concepts and bold business decisions have shaped the company, leading the way in so many ideas, while others follow.

Wetherspoon’s pubs were the first to stock Kopparberg cider, now a brand leader, sold in more than 40 countries and the world’s best-selling pear cider. When Wetherspoon employee Fred Gibson suggested the idea to the company, several years ago, Kopparberg was a new and unknown kid on the block. Life Cider is a way of life in Sweden; in fact, it is believed that Scandinavia is the original home of cider. In 1882, 36 local brewers in the Swedish town of Kopparberg amalgamated to form Kopparberg’s Bryggeri AB.

However, copper and gold were not the only resources Kopparberg boasted: bubbling from underground was something just as precious – soft water. Soft water has a low mineral content, allowing natural tastes to come through unaltered. The best Pilseners in the world use soft water, as well as the best Japanese sakis. Kopparberg’s soft water is so valued that, some years ago, a Swiss consortium tried to buy the wells to export the water to Switzerland. Kopparberg uses only this water for its cider. Summer There are three flavours from the range available this summer at your local Wetherspoon. Kopparberg Strawberry & Lime, the perfect summer drink, newly voted as the number-one in ‘cool brands for the fridge’ in pub industry magazine Publican’s Morning Advertiser.

Today, the family-owned company is led by brothers Peter and Dan-Anders Bronsman, while production itself takes place under the strict supervision of brewmaster Rickhard Voigt.

Like summer in a glass, a splash of fresh strawberries in apple juice and a squeeze of tangy lime, Kopparberg Strawberry & Lime is perfect for summer BBQs. Drink it over ice to deliver that strawberry flavour which only summer can.

Like all Swedes, they believe in the virtues of simplicity and uncomplicatedness and this is reflected in their cider, of which they are so proud.

Kopparberg Summer Fruits Light offers a lighter, lower-Calorie option for enjoying delicious fruit cider. Bursting with raspberries and blueberries, this flavour-filled drink is perfect for summer.

Innovation Kopparberg has also been a leader in innovation since it was born. The first to sell their sweet cider, it was soon followed by fruit cider, another first.

The juices of plump pears are infused with naturally occurring soft water to create the perfect combination of a refreshingly light and fruity cider, with the punch of a strong pear taste. Kopparberg Pear is deliciously thirst-quenching, full of life and also being served this summer at Wetherspoon.

The people who founded the town of Kopparberg originally came for its copper reserves.

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 49

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F RE Many people feel confused by the conflicting arguments concerning the EU referendum.

Here, we have tried to present the arguments for and against – in an easy-to-read format. Those in favour of ‘Remain’ are David Cameron, Nick Clegg, government minister Anna Soubry and Financial Times chief economics commentator Martin Wolf. The ‘Leave’ argument is represented by Boris Johnson, Tony Benn, economist Gerard Lyons and MEP Daniel Hannan. There is a lot to read, but it’s an important decision. So, grab a drink, find a corner and take an hour or two to weigh up the information in your mind… The Editor

DAVID CAMERON: BREXIT WOULD BE ‘GAMBLE OF THE CENTURY’ In an article for the Telegraph, Prime Minister David Cameron demands Cabinet rebels answer key questions over the future for Britain outside the European Union

A week after six of his Cabinet ministers announced they would campaign against him in the EU referendum, David Cameron warns the public of the risks of leaving the EU. He calls on Leave campaigners to spell out the kind of trading relationship Britain would have outside the EU and demands that they detail how the UK would cooperate with other countries to stop terrorists. In an appeal to voters, the Prime Minister says jobs, the cost of living and family finances are all at stake in the referendum on June 23. On 23rd June, nothing less than the future of our country is at stake. If you vote to remain in Europe, I can clearly describe what you’re voting for. Our trade links with a reformed Europe and the wider world will grow; we’ll keep on working with our neighbours to make our country safer; and Britain will continue to help set the rules of the market of 500 million people on our doorstep, and have a say over the future of the continent to which we are geographically tied. That’s the picture of “in” – positive and definitive. Instead, when the people campaigning for “out” are asked to set out a vision outside the European Union, they become extremely vague. It’s simply not good enough to assert everything will be all right when jobs and our country’s future are at stake. That’s why today I want to set out some of the specific questions those who would leave the European Union must answer. They don’t owe it to me; they owe it to us all, because at the moment what they are offering is a leap in the dark. The first question is: what trading relationship would Britain have with Europe after leaving? Every country that’s been granted full access to the Single Market has had to pay into the EU, and accept free movement of people – but has no say over rules that govern those things. Just ask Norway; they pay roughly the same per head to the EU as Britain does, and they accept twice as many EU migrants, yet they have no say at the EU Council. Another suggestion is to negotiate a Free Trade Agreement or similar with the EU, like Canada, Switzerland or Turkey. But none of these countries has an agreement that is any way as comprehensive as the Single Market. That’s OK

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for them – around a tenth of Canada’s exports, for example, go to Europe; but around half of ours do. What’s more, Canada’s agreement, when it takes effect, will offer less access for services than we have now. But that sector makes up three-quarters of our economy. What would that mean for UK jobs in retail, insurance and creative industries? A final option is to fall back onto the World Trade Organisation for trade. But this could be crippling for our industries, as we’d have to accept tariffs that are sometimes as high as 50 per cent. The second question is: how long would it take to put a new relationship in place – and how great would the uncertainty be for families and businesses in the meantime? It took Switzerland a decade to negotiate their current relationship with Europe, and Canada seven years – and theirs still hasn’t been implemented. Of course, those who advocate leaving Europe say we should just sign trade deals with other parts of the world. But how plausible is it that India, China or Brazil would sign a trade deal with us before they know what sort of new relationship we have with Europe? While all this wrangling goes on, there would be huge amounts of uncertainty, and it would have an impact on investment and trade – and, ultimately, your job, the prices you pay and your family’s finances. The third question is about security. Today Britain has a whole set of arrangements with our European neighbours: the European Arrest Warrant, access to European criminal records, sharing information to stop terrorists coming to our country. Do those who want to leave support this network of security cooperation? If not, they need to spell out how they intend to keep people safe. Do they propose individual agreements with 27 countries? How long would that take? Or do they propose an agreement with the EU simply to opt back into all of the arrangements again? Surely that would mean – again – we would be subject to rules we would have no power over influencing – the complete opposite of sovereignty. Fourth, there’s a bigger question about our role in the world: outside the EU, is Britain more able or less able to get things done? Of course, we’re a strong country. We’re the 5th largest economy in the world. We’ve got superb

armed forces. But think of the things that have threatened us in recent years: the prospect of a nuclear Iran; Russian aggression in Ukraine; the overwhelming impact of the migration crisis; the poison of Islamist extremism and terrorism. European countries have to work together to deal with them, and it is through the EU that Britain has helped drive Europe’s response. And they will remain issues if Britain leaves the EU. That doesn’t mean we can’t do things with NATO or with America – but there is a reason that our NATO allies want us to remain in the EU. They can see clearly that our membership amplifies our power as a nation, and that now is not a time for disunity among Western nations. As you consider these questions, bear in mind the process for leaving the EU, as set out in Article 50 of the European Treaty. A Leave vote would set the clock ticking on a two-year period to negotiate the terms of exit. If we failed to reach an agreement, all 27 countries would have to approve an extension, or we’d fall back onto basic rules. That means that, without an extension, our full access to the Single Market ceases and our free trade agreements around the world lapse overnight. A year ago, the Conservative election manifesto contained a clear commitment: security at every stage of your life. Britain is doing well. Our economy is growing; unemployment is falling to record lows. We need to be absolutely sure, if we are to put all that at risk, that the future would be better for our country outside the EU than it is today. There is no doubt in my mind that the only certainty of exit is uncertainty; that leaving Europe is fraught with risk. Risk to our economy, because the dislocation could put pressure on the pound, on interest rates and on growth. Risk to our cooperation on crime and security matters. And risk to our reputation as a strong country at the heart of the world’s most important institutions. With so many gaps in the “out” case, the decision is clearly one between the great unknown and a greater Britain. A vote to leave is the gamble of the century. And it would be our children’s futures on the table if we were to roll the dice.

E V A LE

BORIS JOHNSON MP, WRITING IN THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

DO BREMAINERS REALLY THINK VOTERS WILL BE COWED BY THE LIKES OF OBAMA? So I gather they think it’s game over. The Bremainers think they have bombed us into submission. They think that we have just seen the turning point in the referendum campaign, and that the British people are so intimidated by these testimonials – American presidents, business leaders, fat cats of every description – that they now believe the British people will file meekly to the polls in two months’ time and consent to stay in the EU; and thereby to the slow and insidious erosion of democracy in this country. If that is indeed the view of the Remain campaign, they are crowing too soon. They are perhaps ignoring the resilience and thoughtfulness of many middle-of-the-roaders. One senior public servant – a man of no political party, and who had previously been on the fence – texted me after the US intervention and said he had been so outraged at President Obama’s “back of the queue” remark that he had instantly decided to vote Leave. But let us suppose that the Bremainers are right in their complacency. Let’s imagine that we all wake up on June 24, and discover that the people have indeed been so cowed and so perplexed by the scare stories that they voted to Remain. What then? There will be instant jubilation in Brussels, of course; champagne corks going off like Tchaikovsky’s 1812 overture. Among the vast clerisy of lobbyists and corporate affairs gurus – all the thousands of Davos men and women who have their jaws firmly clamped around the euro-teat – there will be relief. Things will go on as they are; indeed, things will go into overdrive. For more than a year now, Brussels has been in a self-imposed lockdown. Nothing must be done to frighten the children. The British referendum – that embarrassing and tedious genuflection to democracy – must be safely won; and then they will get their plans out of the drawer and get on with the business of building a federal superstate.

You may have noticed, however, that the euro crisis is far from over, and that the EU remains a gigantic engine of job destruction. Eight years after the disaster began, it is obvious that the problem is structural, not cyclical. In Spain, Portugal and Greece, a whole generation of young people has been sacrificed to the Moloch of the euro – and they are still on the dole. The Greeks are unable to pay their debts; the Italian banks have a €360 billion black hole. In response, the EU plans “more Europe”, a fiscal and political union, in which Britain would inevitably be involved. Remember we were told we wouldn’t have to pay for the Greek bail-outs? And then we did? According to the European Commission’s Five Presidents’ Report, which lays out plans to shore up the euro, the Commission wants to have a new European approach to company law, to property rights, to every aspect of employment law. Why? Because if the Germans are to be persuaded to engage in a perpetual bankrolling of the less prosperous regions of the EU, then they want proper Germanic rules to enforce good behaviour. He who pays the piper calls the tune. And Brussels can see only one way to save the euro – and that is to get Germany to pay, and therefore to allow Germany to call the tune. Remember that twice in the last five years, the EU has removed a democratically elected government – in Italy and Greece – and installed Brussels-approved technocrats. It is a narcotic tyranny. They want to go on with the work of building a unitary state, in a way that is anti-democratic and ultimately very dangerous, since it will one day provoke real public anger. Britain should not be involved in any of this – and yet we have absurdly and inexcusably given up our veto rights; and the whole process is going to be conducted within the “single market” – that is, the existing EU structures – so that we are morally and legally comprised, and share all the ensuing political and economic damage.

Inch by inch, month by month, the sausage machine of EU law-making will extrude more laws – at a rate of 2,500 a year, or perhaps even faster, once the referendum is out of the way. More and more people will exercise their unfettered rights to come to this country, putting more pressure on our public services. And eventually – when we are unable to take it any more – the UK will utter a faint sheepish cough of protest. Please sir, we will say, raising our hand in the EU Council, we need reform. And eyebrows will shoot up in a Batemanesque way. REFORM? they will say, in the tones of Lady Bracknell. REFORM? But you just had reform… If there is one thing that proves the folly of remaining in the EU – in the hope that we can change things from within – it is the tragic poverty of that deal. The Prime Minister asked to restore social and employment legislation to national control; for a complete opt-out from the Charter of Fundamental rights; to stop the European court adjudicating on UK criminal law; to ensure that immigrants have a job offer before entering the UK; to revise the Working Time directive to protect the NHS; to reform the Common Agricultural Policy and the structural funds; and full-on Treaty change. What did we get? Two thirds of diddly squat. We need to talk about that deal in the weeks ahead, because it shows how contemptuously we will be treated if we vote to remain. This is the last chance, in our lifetimes, to take back control – of £350m a week (and use some of that cash to deliver a seven-day NHS) – and the last chance to take back control of our democracy. Of course the elites want to remain. They will always have power. The losers are the hundreds of millions of Europeans whose only power is their vote – their ability to sack their governments at elections. That power is being taken away. It is indefensible, and it will lead to real trouble. We can be stronger, richer, more influential if we vote Leave. In believing that we can all be scared into thinking otherwise, the Remainers are fatally underestimating the British public.

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NICK CLEGG MP, WRITING IN THE LONDON EVENING STANDARD

NICK CLEGG: THE FIVE BIG FAT LIES BEING PERPETUATED BY BREXIT’S PROJECT FIB The EU Leave campaigners are engaging in ‘truthiness’: if they don’t like a fact they just make up another one A few years ago the American comedian Stephen Colbert, imitating a Right-wing shock jock, coined the phrase ‘truthiness’ to describe the art of asserting one’s beliefs as if they are facts. “Anybody who knows me knows that I’m no fan of dictionaries or reference books. They’re elitist.” he declared. “Who’s Britannica to tell me the Panama Canal was finished in 1914? If I wanna say it happened in 1941, that’s my right. “I don’t trust books. They’re all fact, no heart.” Nigel Farage, Nigel Lawson, Michael Howard, Boris Johnson and the rest of the Brexit crew are increasingly treating the EU like Colbert treated the Panama Canal: they’re just making things up. If their heart tells them they don’t like a fact, they merrily make up another one. Every time anyone reasonably points out the risks of yanking ourselves out of the world’s largest marketplace they yell that it’s “Project Fear”. Yet they have come up with their very own Project: Project Fib. Here, then, are the five fattest fibs from Project Fib: The first is the claim that our membership of the EU costs us £55 million a day, a figure repeatedly used by Farage, Johnson and others. It’s a total con. As the fact-checkers at InFacts have found, in 2015 the net cost was in fact £17 million a day, or around 30p per person. For that entry fee we then get all the benefits that our access to the world’s largest single market brings, which the CBI has estimated to be worth £3,000 to every British household. So every man, woman and child materially benefits many times more than what we pay in. The second is that, when it comes to trade, the EU needs us more than we need it. At a debate I took part in last week, this was the very first point made by Tory minister Andrea Leadsom. Again, totally bogus. Our exports to the rest of the EU represent around 12 per cent of our GDP but the EU’s exports to us are just three per cent of its GDP. Neither side will want a trade war but we should be under no illusion that the EU would have the much stronger hand to play in any negotiations if we left.

The third is that fewer than 750,000 Brits live elsewhere in Europe, far fewer than the number of EU nationals who live in the UK, a fib that Farage used against me in that same debate. But his figure is complete baloney. The Government’s own estimates a few years ago suggested around 2.2 million British people were living at least part of the year elsewhere, which is only slightly less than the 2.3 million EU citizens estimated to be living in the UK. The right to live and work across the EU is a two-way street. The fourth is that EU “red tape” costs British businesses £600 million a year, a figure cited recently by Boris Johnson, and that the UK is run by a monstrously bloated bureaucracy in Brussels. For a start, this fib is based on the cost of applying regulations not just to business but to the public sector too. And, as with the £55 million-a-day figure, it takes no account of the return we get, either in terms of matters such as cleaner air or the huge benefits those same businesses get from being able to trade freely in the world’s biggest marketplace. And the European Commission is in truth about a 10th the size of Whitehall, employing around half the number of officials employed by HMRC alone. But the fifth is perhaps the most pernicious. It is the claim that if we withdraw from Europe we can somehow “reclaim our borders” and wish the problem of mass immigration away. The Farages of this world like to suggest that if we were not part of the EU fewer desperate refugees fleeing war in Syria and elsewhere would seek to make their way here. What cynical nonsense. The truth is that we are not part of the borderless Schengen area and the thousands of traumatised individuals clamouring for refuge in Europe do not make a distinction between EU and non-EU membership. They just want safety and sanctuary. What’s more, if we want to trade with Europe in future as we do now, free movement will undoubtedly be part of the deal. That’s what Norway and Switzerland, which the Brexiteers love to cite as models, have found. Both have to sign up to the EU’s rules in order to be part of the single market (even partially in Switzerland’s case), and we would too.

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If you believed everything the Eurosceptics said, you would think Britain was some impotent basket case, its leaders toothless, its businesses drowning in bureaucracy, and its fate in the hands of stern-faced Germans and perfidious Frenchmen all hellbent on helping hordes of dodgy foreigners clamber up the white cliffs of Dover. But it isn’t. We are not a bulldog in a muzzle, unable to bark. We are the world’s fifthlargest economy. We sit at the top table of world affairs, from the G8 to Nato and the UN Security Council. We are among the world leaders in everything from green technologies and gaming to television dramas and top-flight football. All these things are enabled by our membership of the EU, not diminished by it. The EU is not perfect. Of course not. We have a free choice to decide the fate of our country on June 23. But the least the Leave camp could do is stop fibbing its way to the finishing line. The claim from Ukip within hours of this week’s tragic events in Brussels that our EU membership is synonymous with terrorist atrocities marked a new low in Project Fib. It is not Project Fear that you should worry about, it is Project Fib. The decision we will all make in a few weeks’ time is one that will affect the course of our country for decades. It should be made on the basis of facts, not truthiness.

THE LATE AND GREAT PARLIAMENTARIAN TONY BENN CRITICISED THE EU FOR ITS LACK OF DEMOCRACY IN AN ARTICLE HE WROTE FOR WETHERSPOON NEWS IN 2001

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MARTIN WOLF, CHIEF ECONOMICS COMMENTATOR AT THE FINANCIAL TIMES, WRITING IN THE NEWSPAPER

ARGUMENTS FOR BREXIT DO NOT ADD UP…… The top 10 points in favour of an exit and how to rebut them If the UK voted to leave the EU, it would almost certainly be outside the arrangement organising the life of our neighbours and principal economic partners forever. Given this, the question is whether the option to leave should be exercised now. My answer is: absolutely not. To see why, let us examine popular arguments in favour of departure. First, membership has brought few benefits. This is false. The Centre for European Reform estimates that it has raised trade with EU members by 55 per cent, increasing productivity and output. Trade creation within the EU has far exceeded diversion of trade from elsewhere. Europe has also brought a strong competition policy and control of state aid. These are important gains. Second, membership has imposed huge costs. In fact the net fiscal cost is a mere 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product. Moreover, this could be regained in full only if the UK abandoned altogether its preferential access to the EU market. The UK is also one of the least regulated highincome economies. Its recent labour market performance demonstrates its continuing (and remarkable) flexibility. A study from the Centre for European Policy Studies adds that only “6.8 per cent of UK primary legislation and 14.1 per cent of UK secondary legislation” was passed in order to implement EU law. Third, an increasingly integrated eurozone will dictate to the UK. Yet a full political union of the eurozone looks quite unlikely. Its members also differ on many points, which opens up opportunities for UK influence. Fourth, the UK should leave because a eurozone break-up would damage the UK economy. If the eurozone broke up in a disorderly fashion, the damage to its closest partners might be substantial. Yet the EU will remain the UK’s biggest trading partner indefinitely. Thus the UK would be damaged by a eurozone break-up, whether in the EU or not. Arguing that leaving would shield the UK against such a disaster would be like arguing Canada should leave the North American Free Trade Agreement, to avoid a US financial crisis. It makes no sense. Fifth, the UK should leave because the EU is slow-growing. It is plausible that the UK’s trade with the rest of the world will expand relative to trade with its slow-growing neighbours. But reducing access to EU markets deliberately would make sense only if membership prevented the UK from trading with the rest of the world. Germany’s export performance demonstrates that it does not. Sixth, membership of the EU prevents the UK from opening up world markets. Yet the EU was a moving force in three successful global trade negotiations: the Kennedy, Tokyo and Uruguay rounds. It has increasingly turned towards preferential trade arrangements. The clout of the EU gives it far greater capacity to open up the markets of, say, China, India or the US than the UK could do on its own. Seventh, it would be easy to agree on alternatives to EU membership. Yet

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those recommending leaving have no agreed position. There are three plausible alternatives: full departure with trade regulated by the World Trade Organisation, which would cost the UK its preferential market access to the EU; Swiss-style membership of a trade arrangement in goods, with bilateral deals in other areas, which is complex and would require the UK to retain free movement of people; and Norwegian-style membership of the European Economic Area, giving full access (except for having to abide by rules of origin in trade in goods) but would deprive the UK of a say on regulations. In all, the more sovereignty the UK wishes to regain, the less preferential access it retains. This trade-off cannot be fudged. Eighth, it will be easy for the UK to obtain whatever it wants from the EU. Sometimes this argument is buttressed by the statement that the rest of the EU runs a trade surplus with the UK, which it will be desperate to keep. This is naive. Divorces are rarely harmonious. Moreover, countries with big surpluses with the UK (notably Germany) would continue to sell their goods to the UK, even if Brexit led to a small rise in the import tariff. The share of UK trade done with the rest of the EU is also far greater than the share of EU trade done with the UK. Thus the idea that a departing UK could dictate terms is a fantasy. Above all, those promoting departure ignore what the UK’s European partners think about the EU. The political elites, particularly of Germany and France, regard the preservation of an integrated Europe as their highest national interest. They will want to make clear to all that departure carries a heavy price. That price is likely to include attempts to drive euro-related financial markets out of London. Ninth, it will be easy to reach an agreement on controlling immigration. But if the UK wanted to retain preferential access to EU markets it would be required to retain labour mobility. If, instead, it abandoned attempts to retain preferential access, it might then impose work permits on EU citizens. This would make the UK jobs market more inflexible, particularly for skilled people. As important, the EU would reciprocate. That would adversely affect British people working and living in the EU. Tenth, the uncertainty associated with leaving the EU would be modest. In fact, the uncertainties would be pervasive: we do not know what the UK government negotiating an exit would want; we do not know what the rest of the EU would offer; we do not know how long negotiations would last; and we do not know what the outcome would be. Those in favour of leaving offer fantasies of damage done by staying and of opportunity opened by departure. None of these arguments has much merit. The rational thing to do is for the UK to continue to enjoy its unique arrangement, which has brought it the advantages of membership with so few of the disadvantages. As our foreign friends tell us, to do anything else would be mad.

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GERARD LYONS, MEMBER OF ECONOMISTS FOR BREXIT, WRITING IN THE TIMES

WE DON’T NEED TRADE DEALS TO BOOM AFTER BREXIT Leaving will not only be good for business but will give us an outward-looking global vision There is a strong economic case for Brexit. To understand it properly you have to steer clear of the group-think that often dominates economics. The consensus was wrong when it said we should have joined the euro. It was wrong also when it said the UK would not have to leave the Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM) and that if it did, inflation would soar, interest rates would rise and the economy would contract. The opposite happened: the pound fell out of the ERM on Black Wednesday and the economy recovered strongly. Perhaps the biggest error in the economic consensus for Remain is the view that the EU will reform. The EU shows little desire to do so, highlighted by the uphill battle the prime minister faced in negotiating his deal last year. This deal is rarely mentioned now, particularly our inability to secure a veto to stop the eurozone economies driving the future EU project solely for their benefit. This still worries many in the City, were we to remain. Instead the debate has largely focused on trade. What everyone needs to appreciate is that we do not need a trade deal to trade. We trade across the globe with countries we do not have a trade deal with. Go into any shop, pick up an item and it will probably say, “Made in China”, a country with whom we do not have a trade deal. Likewise with the US. Trade deals are largely aimed at protecting or promoting specific sectors, ensuring that they are shielded from international competition or given preference in the face of it. This is usually achieved through a combination of tariff and non-tariff barriers. Therein lies a problem. The EU is a customs union. When students are taught economics the main evils they are warned about include hyperinflation, mass unemployment and customs unions. These are anti-consumer and protectionist. Professor Patrick Minford of Cardiff University has shown how the customs union means we pay much higher prices for food and other protected items, by between 10 per cent and 20 per cent. By contrast, Brexit would result in a fall in prices; we would be outside the EU’s tariff wall and food prices could fall to the level of world rates. Trade within the EU should be easy through the single market. But the single market in services does not work properly, and is unlikely to do so in a way that benefits the UK, given EU opposition. Meanwhile, there is a tariff wall around the EU that protects agriculture, largely for the benefit of France, and parts of manufacturing, because of Germany. In these protected areas, people pay prices higher than in world markets. Caribbean sugar producers, for instance, or African agricultural exporters have frequently complained about the difficulty of selling their cheaper produce into the EU market. The losers from this are those local farmers as well as EU consumers (including ourselves), while the gainers are those who are protected by EU tariffs.

So what happens if we leave? Nothing would immediately change during the first two years. After that date the reassuring fact is that, at the very least, we would be able to trade freely with the EU, as we do now with China, the US and much of the globe, under World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. Indeed, we would regain our seat on the WTO after Brexit and so speak for ourselves in the body that sets global rules, rather than the EU speaking for us. Such WTO rules will also make it very difficult for the EU to try to make an example of us to deter others from leaving. The independent Economists for Brexit group shows that, overall, the UK will be a net global trade winner. For most goods, tariffs are low or non-existent because of globalisation. There may be some limited losers in areas previously used to EU tariff protection. The UK government and electorate can decide whether to use the £12.9 billion from our gross EU contribution after the rebate to help these areas, such as agriculture, while they adjust. The reality, however, is that the average WTO tariff is only 1.04 per cent, which is more a business cost than a deterrent to trade. Of course, we could do trade deals if we want to; we could call this WTO Plus. Currently, the EU negotiates on behalf of all its members. Britain’s demands are only one among 28 member states, and services, which are the hallmark of our economy, do not figure large. The EU is slow at conducting trade deals and the one being suggested with America, TTIP, is clouded in secrecy and controversy. Outside the EU, the UK could learn from the success of South Korea and Singapore, which have many trade deals. We could construct deals that were in our best interests, and ones that could be done with fast-growing economies across the globe. If the UK wanted to construct a deal with the EU this is likely to be relatively straightforward on goods ­– as the pro-EU reform think tank Open Europe says – since it would be vital for jobs in EU countries, particularly Germany. In services, we would trade freely, as we do now. Leaving the EU is about more than just a trade deal; it gives us greater democratic control, saves money and allows control of our borders. Yet the issue of trade highlights a choice between an inward-looking, insular EU, and an outward-looking, global vision that comes with Brexit.

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THIS SERIES OF THREE ARTICLES BY MEP DANIEL HANNAN APPEARED IN THE DAILY MAIL

EXPOSED. PRO-EU CHEER LEADERS IN THE PAY OF BRUSSELS: Euro MP DANIEL HANNAN reveals the REAL reason charities, quangos and lobbyists are desperate to keep Britain in the EU • • • •

EU pays charities to back more EU powers on issues such as environment Throws cash at groups who pay it lip service – so they can claim to listen Officials pay EU 21% tax – so make decisions for others but don’t feel them Thousands died because EU bowed to lobbying from diesel car faction

On Saturday, Euro MP Daniel Hannan asked you to sack him and so help abolish the fat-cat perks enjoyed by Eurocrats and Brussels politicians. Today, he reveals the back-scratching culture of Brussels, where it’s the EU-funded lobby groups and quangos who are the loudest supporters of ever-greater union... A recent public letter warning against Brexit argued that EU laws have ‘a hugely positive effect’ on the environment. It was signed by the heads of a dozen green pressure groups including Natural England, the Green Alliance, the RSPB and the Natural Environment Research Council. What was not mentioned was that the European Commission funds eight of the 12 organisations directly. Of course, ‘protect our countryside’ sounds so much prettier than ‘protect our grants’, but you can’t help wondering which issue motivated them more. It’s a familiar ruse. The last time Britain had to approve a major transfer of power to Brussels was in 2007, when we ratified the Lisbon Treaty. Introducing the Bill in Parliament, the then Foreign Secretary, David Miliband, made a great song and dance of quoting a whole range of organisations in favour. ‘The NSPCC has pledged its support, as have One World Action, Action Aid and Oxfam,’ he said, looking pleased with himself. ‘Environmental organisations support the treaty provisions on sustainable development, and even the commission of bishops supports the treaty. This is a coalition, not of ideology, but integrity.’ Integrity? It turned out every organisation he cited was in receipt of EU subventions. Hardly surprising, then, that they should dutifully endorse a treaty supported by their paymasters. What was surprising was the extent of their financial dependency. When I asked the European Commission how much money it had paid these organisations, it emerged that Action Aid, the NSPCC, One World Action and Oxfam had among them been given €43 million in a single year. So, can organisations in receipt of such colossal subs aidies legitimately claim to be independent? Can they even describe themselves as charities, at least in the sense that we commonly understand the word? As for the ‘commission of bishops’, that turned out to be the ‘Commission of Bishops’ Conferences of the European Community’, a Brussels-based outfit whose purpose was ‘to promote reflection, based on the Church’s social teaching, on the challenges facing a united Europe’. In other words, while seeking to give the impression of broad support for a new transfer of powers to Brussels, the British Foreign Secretary was reduced to citing a body that would be out of business if the EU disappeared.

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Back in 2003, when the European Constitution was first being drawn up, 200 organisations supposedly representing ‘civil society’ were invited to submit their suggestions on what it should contain. All of them were in receipt of EU grants. This is how the system works. The EU funds an interest group. That group duly demands that Eurocrats seize more powers. Eurocrats then announce that, in response to popular demand, they are extending their jurisdiction. When the Commission sought new continent-wide rules on pesticides, it set up a group called Pesticide Watch — an amalgam of various EUfunded bodies — to push it in the direction it wanted. MEPs were then duly bombarded by emails from this campaign, presented as missives from ordinary citizens. In much the same way, the Commission pays Friends of the Earth to urge it to take more powers in the field of climate change. It pays WWF (the World Wildlife Fund) to tell it to assume more control over environmental matters. It pays the European Trade Union Congress to demand more Brussels employment laws. The EU machine-guns cash at its client organisations, these organisations tell it what it wants to hear, and it then turns around and claims to have listened to The People. Virtually every field of activity has some approved, EU-sponsored pressure group to campaign for deeper integration: the European Union of Journalists, the European Women’s Lobby, the European Cyclists’ Federation. These are not independent associations which just happen to be in receipt of EU funds. They are, in most cases, creatures of the European Commission, wholly dependent on Brussels for their existence. So when the Remain campaign tells us it has the support of some organisation or other, it is wise to check where their funding comes from. Take UK Universities, which campaigns strenuously for the EU and claims that ‘EU funding is too important to be sacrificed’. British universities have had close to €900 million from Brussels since 2008. What UK Universities won’t tell you is that all this money was, in effect, taken out of Britain’s contribution to the EU. If Britain withdrew, it could make an equivalent or larger payment directly, rather than routing it through Brussels. Yet they still want to stick with the EU. Why? Because of what the economist Milton Friedman called ‘the tyranny of the status quo’. This does not just refer to the fact that human beings are change-averse, though we are. It refers, also, to the way in which a corpus of vested interests grows up around whatever happens to be the established settlement.

Eurocrats employed by Brussels are naturally gung-ho on the Remain side. They are well paid (with a very advantageous tax perk) and not about to bite the hand that feeds them. I can understand that. But some of those fighting hardest to remain in the EU are benefiting from the system at second-hand. The ‘Europe Officers’ employed by local authorities; the financial regulators whose bread-and-butter work is the enforcement of EU rules; the representatives of the professional associations and trade unions that maintain a presence in Brussels; the bureaucrats who flit between their national civil services and lucrative Brussels secondments. The professors whose chairs are endowed by the EU; the think-tanks that are contracted by the EU to carry out research projects on remarkably generous terms; the NGOs and charities in receipt of grants; the international aid consultants; the lobbyists, for whom the EU is a goldmine. These recipients of EU largesse are likely to argue that Britain ought to have influence in Brussels, that the nation-state is passé and that the economy benefits from the EU. You are entitled to be sceptical about what they say. My advice? Cherchez l’argent. ONE of the reasons the EU is stagnating while other advanced economies grow is because cronyism and protectionism flourish in the undemocratic Brussels institutions. Under this system, committees and technical experts meet and make trade-offs out of the public eye. It amounts to an invitation to lobbyists and pressure groups to reach secret arrangements behind closed doors. No wonder lobbyists love the EU, intuiting from the moment they arrive that it was designed by and for people like them. The grey, rainy streets of Brussels are to lobbying what Silicon Valley is to high-tech. There are reckoned to be around 25,000 of them plying their trade there as big business spends fortunes forging links with those who make the laws. Oil companies, banks, new media outfits such as Microsoft and Google, pharmaceutical companies — all are at it, purchasing face-time to promote their vested interests. So, too, are causes such as Greenpeace, WWF and Oxfam. What all these lobbies have in common, whether industrial or environmental, is a preference for corporatism and back-room deals. What is bad about such a system is not just that it is intrinsically secretive and a paradise for vested interests. It also puts a major block on innovation and enterprise. Vested interests rarely like innovation. Nor does the EU, which is, by its nature, hostile to anything new or different. Existing elites fear that the creative destruction of new inventions might jeopardise their position. They therefore lobby to keep things more or less as they are. In the 28 member states, this isn’t always easy to achieve. The individual nations are democracies with independent judiciaries. But in the EU, whose institutions were designed by men who distrusted democracy, it is far easier to reach cosy accommodations with decisionmakers. As for the will of the people, that can go hang. Let me give you an example. Twenty million citizens around the EU make use of complementary health products, but in 2005, the EU began to regulate higher-dose vitamin and mineral supplements, herbal remedies and other alternative medicines. In 16 years as an MEP, I have never had so many letters and emails from worried constituents, for whom this was a burning issue. Now, there are arguments on both sides for these medicines. I was puzzled. Why did the EU want to ban or restrict substances that were at best health-giving and at worst harmless? Regulation should be brought in only proportionately and only where there is an identified need. Of course, Eurocrats see it differently. In their view, ‘unregulated’ is synonymous with ‘illegal’. The idea that an absence of regulation might be the natural state of affairs finds little sympathy. British herbalists had been essentially self-regulating since a dispensation dating from the reign of Henry VIII, which gave them the freedom to trade without being prosecuted for witchcraft. In Brussels, this was regarded not as an ancient liberty, but as a loophole that needed closing.

Some of the large pharmaceutical companies, well understanding the Eurocratic mindset, saw an opportunity to put their smaller rivals out of business. The new legislation required expensive tests that the big companies could afford, but which were beyond the means of small producers. As independent herbalists reduced the range of what they could sell, and in some cases went out of business altogether, the giants assumed a larger market share. Now, who gained from that procedure and who lost? The multi-nationals did very well out of it, obviously. Consumers did badly. But the European economy as a whole suffered, too. Whenever a cartel succeeds in raising barriers to entry, the climate becomes less congenial to start-ups, and some entrepreneurs take their energy elsewhere. Lobbying by big business was also at the heart of perhaps the worst scandal ever to hit the car industry when it emerged last year that Volkswagen had been programming some of its diesel engines to cheat emissions tests. The discovery was, of course, a terrible blow to the company, but it raised another question. Why had the EU, almost uniquely in the world, adopted standards that promoted diesel engines? While the American and Japanese governments were encouraging hybrid and electric cars, the EU struck out in a very different direction, enforcing emissions standards that focused on carbon dioxide (CO2) instead of nitrogen oxide. The diesel market was almost dead in the late Eighties, when Volkswagen revived the technology with its turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engines. European car manufacturers saw a market opportunity and set about lobbying for Brussels rules that would give them an advantage over their rivals. It wasn’t an easy case to make. Diesel emits four times more NO2 than petrol and 22 times more of the tiny pollutants that penetrate our lungs, brains and hearts. Yet, although diesel is generally the filthier fuel, it does produce 15 per cent less CO2 than petrol. And so a massive operation was begun to sell the new standard as part of the Kyoto climate change process to reduce CO2 emissions. Health risks were overlooked, and the conversation was skilfully turned to global warming. It worked. During the mid-Nineties, the car companies negotiated a deal with the European Commission which prioritised a cut in CO2 emissions over the more immediate health problems caused by exhaust fumes — an arrangement announced in 1998 by Neil Kinnock, the then Transport Commissioner. According to Simon Birkett, of Clean Air in London: ‘It was practically an order to switch to diesel. The European car fleet was transformed from being almost entirely petrol to predominantly diesel. Britain, Germany, France and Italy offered subsidies and sweeteners to persuade car makers and the public to buy diesel.’ As a result, diesel cars went from less than 10 per cent of the UK market in 1995 to more than half in 2012, with equivalent rises in other EU states. Because the industry had been savvy enough to make its case in terms of climate change, the ministers and pressure groups who might have scrutinised what was happening gave carmakers the benefit of the doubt — up until the shock of the 2015 Volkwagen revelations. In short, the EU was lobbied by a vested interest and adopted rules that increased air pollution and led to the needless deaths of thousands of European citizens. No one set out deliberately to kill. No doubt the Brussels-based lobbyists acting for the car giants genuinely convinced themselves that they were saving the planet. Still, EU policy ended up killing many innocent people, in the commercial interest of one industrial sector. It was a terrible blunder.

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WHY BRITAIN WILL NEVER GET WHAT IT WANTS IN EUROPE: Seventy times, we tried to block EU laws. Seventy times, we failed. Euro MP DANIEL HANNAN lays bare our impotence in Brussels Ask yourself this fundamental question. If the United Kingdom were not already a member of the European Union, would you vote to join? Or would you go along with Iceland, Norway and Switzerland, the non-EU nations that most resemble Britain, and steer well clear? In all three countries — comparable to us because they are neither excommunist nor micro-states — there are solid and settled majorities against joining the EU. Supporters of membership have never been able to answer the crucial question asked by the leader of Norway’s No campaign in 1994: ‘To what problem is the EU a solution?’ Back in 1975, when the UK held its previous referendum, the then European Economic Community (EEC) did seem to offer answers. This was the era of the three-day week, government controls on prices and incomes, power cuts, double-digit inflation, deficits and strikes. Britain was in economic decline, outperformed by every European economy. When British people looked across the Channel, they saw what looked like a success story. The then six members of the EEC had bounced back from World War II while we were close to collapse, dragged down by war debt, inflation, low productivity and lack of competitiveness. Linking ourselves to Germany’s ‘economic miracle’ seemed sound sense. Yet almost from that very moment, the problem we thought we were solving was changing. Although no one knew it at the time, the European economic miracle was coming to an end. Just as Britain decided to join, Europe was about to be outstripped by other parts of the world. Our timing could not have been worse. What’s more, for the sake of closer trade ties across the Channel, we cut our links with Commonwealth countries we had long done business with and set aside sensible habits and traditions that had stood us in good stead for generations. We were an island and a maritime nation with global reach, yet we chose to tie ourselves down to a mere continent. People can argue over whether that made sense at the time, but what is indisputable is that it makes no sense today. Never before has geographical proximity mattered less. In the internet age, a company in Luton can as easily do business with a firm in Ludhiana, India, as with one in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Indeed, more easily. The Indian company, unlike the Slovenian one, will be English-speaking. It will share the British company’s accountancy methods and unwritten business etiquette. If there is a dispute, it will be arbitrated according to common law norms with which both are familiar.

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Britain is the third largest investor in India, and many British firms that operate there, such as JCB, see no point in being in the EU. India, for its part, is the third largest investor in the UK, owning more there than in the other 27 members of the EU combined. When it comes to trade, though, it is a very different story. JCB cannot sell its machinery tariff-free from India to the UK, any more than can steelmaker Tata from the UK to India. Why? Because commerce is controlled by the European Commission. When Britain joined the EEC, we surrendered the right to sign independent trade agreements. As long as we remain, we have no vote and no separate voice in the World Trade Organisation. Our interests are represented there by one twenty-eighth of a European Commissioner — at present a former sociology lecturer from Sweden. Instead, the EU’s Common Commercial Policy drags us into a trade policy that protects the various vested interests around Europe — Italian textile workers, Polish farmers, French film-makers and so on. And this at a time when British trade with the rest of the world is growing, while our trade with the EU is shrinking. Supporters of the EU like to tell anyone who’ll listen that ‘around half our exports’ go to the EU. ‘Around’ is a flexible word. In 2006, 54.7 per cent of Britain’s exports went to the EU. In 2015, it was 44.6 per cent. Where will it be ten years from now? The fact is that the EU economy is struggling, hide-bound by its single currency. This year, Canada will grow by 2.3 per cent, the U.S. by 2.8 per cent, China by 6.3 per cent and India by 7.5 per cent. The UK will grow by 2.1 per cent, and the other non-euro European states by 3 per cent. But the eurozone, after eight years of stagnation, is expected to manage only 1.6 per cent growth. Does Britain, despite her global links, want to remain attached to such a stagnant customs union? At what point will we drop the bizarre argument that, for the sake of a dwindling minority of our commerce, we must merge our political institutions with those of other countries? Will our children look back at the 2016 referendum and wonder why we missed such a unique opportunity to step amicably off the bus? But Europe can improve, we are told. The fallback position of EU supporters, confronted with some indefensible Brussels policy, is to say: ‘Well, that’s something we ought to reform rather than just walking away.’ Brilliant! Reform! Why has no one thought of it before? In fact, the story of the UK’s involvement, first with the EEC, then the EC, now the EU, is of constant attempts at reform. But we’ve failed time and time again. Why? Because those who drive the pan-European project have a totally different agenda from ours. You won’t find many British politicians over the past 50 years, from any party, who openly favoured a United States of Europe.

Almost all wanted a Europe of nations — a flexible alliance of states, co-operating to achieve what they can’t achieve singly, but ultimately responsible to their own democratic institutions. If that model had ever been on offer, there would have been no argument, and we wouldn’t now be holding a referendum. The problem is that the EU has steadily been moving in a different direction. The pattern has been the same from the beginning. Every British leader has promised a fresh start in Europe and has tried to win friends and gain influence over there by making some initial concessions. Each has found that the concessions are pocketed while the EU continues its stately march toward federal union. The EEC that Britain joined in 1973 as essentially a super-free-trade area has since extended its jurisdiction to foreign policy, environmental regulation, immigration, criminal justice and social policy. It has acquired the accoutrements of statehood, from uniformed armed forces to a standardised driving licence. Now it aspires to a common tax and social security system. A Common Market has been turned into a quasi-state. Yet still we delude ourselves, imagining the other members are on the verge of coming round to our point of view. Today we’re told that the euro crisis has revealed the limits of integration, or that the collapse of Schengen heralds a return to the pre-eminence of national authorities. But there is no evidence that the EU’s rush to closer union is slowing. In Brussels, the euro crisis was seen not as evidence that monetary union didn’t work, but as evidence that it hadn’t gone far enough and should be extended to economic and fiscal union as well.

Eurocrats and MEPs have begun to demand debt-pooling, fiscal transfers, a shared finance ministry and, ultimately, EU taxes. These are not the loopy ideas of a few fringe federalists. They are the road signs that the EU plainly intends to follow. Other aims include deeper integration of national labour markets, greater coordination of social security systems and harmonising insolvency law, company law and property rights. If we remain, the UK will, of course, stand against all these things for a while, then be outvoted, and then sulkily go along with them. How do I know? Because that has been our story ever since we joined. Since majority voting was introduced in the late Eighties, the UK has voted against an EU legislative proposal 70 times — and lost 70 times. No other country is so regularly isolated and outvoted. This gives the lie to the Remain argument that being in the EU gives Britain influence. In fact, despite being the second largest financial contributor, we have very little influence. As one Council official frankly admitted: ‘Even the best idea can die if it’s presented by the UK.’ This isn’t because of some Eurovision Song Contest style prejudice against us. Britain finds herself isolated in the EU, not because of any conspiracy against her, but because she fundamentally differs from the others politically and economically. Our economic outlook is different and we do not accept the EU’s objective of political union. There being no sign that the British people are ready to become patriotic citizens of Europe, that isolation will continue. Britain will carry on being outvoted and ignored.

HOW CAMERON BLEW HIS BIG CHANCE TO OBTAIN REAL REFORM At present, opinion polls are evenly balanced on whether Britain should leave the EU. But as soon as you throw in a third option — a looser deal, where we are in the common market but outside the common political structures — approval for staying in Europe shoots up to 70 per cent or more. Which is why David Cameron decided to precede the referendum with a renegotiation, aimed at establishing some new status for us along those lines. That renegotiation process demonstrated just one thing — how intractable the EU is and how disdainful its leaders are toward Britain’s wishes. In many minds, there were three core aims of a renegotiation. • The primacy of UK over EU law on our own territory. • The right to sign bilateral trade deals with non-EU states, such as Australia and India. • The right to control who can settle in the United Kingdom. None of these is in any sense immoderate or unreasonable. That they cannot be reconciled with EU membership tells us a great deal about the nature of the EU. Cameron bottled it from the start. Initially, he set out a broad but shallow reform package. It was pretty modest — docile even — but these demands didn’t even get past the exploratory talks stage. Before they were even properly discussed, out went:

• Restoring social and employment The first two aims were never legislation to national control. intended to be anything other than declaratory: ‘more competitiveness’ • A complete opt-out from the is a meaningless platitude as is Charter of Fundamental Rights. ‘protecting the status of non-euro • Limiting the European Court states’. of Justice’s jurisdiction over It amounted to a declaration that criminal law. Britain wouldn’t have to join the • EU jobseekers to have a job offer single currency — something we before they come here. had no intention of doing anyway. • EU jobseekers to leave if they As to the third commitment, haven’t found work in six months. the strengthening of national • Revising the Working Time parliaments, all that has been Directive (to give the National conceded is a ‘red card’ proposal, Health Service more flexibility). which gives the national • Ending European Parliament parliaments of the EU a theoretical sitting in Strasbourg as well as right to block a Commission Brussels. proposal if 55 per cent of them simultaneously demand it. • Reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. The right is, however, wholly notional. An existing ‘yellow card’ • Treaty change before the mechanism, which needs only referendum. 35 per cent of parliaments to be This last point is critical. Without a triggered, not 55 per cent, has been new treaty, as all sides were aware, used only twice during the six years there would be no binding changes. of its existence — and on one of Yet Brussels had no intention of those occasions it was ignored. committing to a new treaty. The But the ‘red card’ measure isn’t just old rules — the ones we wanted to useless; it is actively harmful. For change — would still apply. the first time in its 750-year history, Britain was reduced to getting a Parliament in Britain is formally declaration from the other heads recognised as a sub-unit within of government to the effect that a a larger polity. few things might be looked at or This initiative treats the EU’s reconsidered. That was it. national parliaments like state Cameron went into actual talks with legislatures in the U.S. — which are just four remaining objectives — empowered to make constitutional boosting competitiveness; protecting amendments if they club together the position of non-euro states; in the right proportion. strengthening national parliaments; and limiting migration.

Instead of being a sovereign entity, our Parliament implicitly accepts a subordinate status. And all in exchange for a blocking power that will never, in fact, be exercised. Which leaves the fourth objective, the idea of restricting migration from the EU. What the PM originally wanted was an ‘emergency brake’ on migration, to limit the number of people who could settle in Britain from EU states. But Eurocrats told him that was no go. So, instead, he said he’d ban foreign nationals from claiming benefits for four years. People, the argument went, should put something into the pot before they can draw payments from it. Again, the Eurocrats said no. Britain’s surrender in those re-negotiations was nothing short of abject. Having gone in with paltry and unassuming demands, the leader of the EU’s secondlargest net contributor failed to get even those. Our Prime Minister was forced to come back to his national parliament with what the Italians call ‘fried air’ — nothing at all. If this is how they treat us now, when we might walk away and take our budget contributions with us, how would they treat us the day after we had voted to remain?

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IF TINY GUERNSEY THRIVES OUTSIDE THE EU, WHY CAN’T WE – THE WORLD’S FIFTH LARGEST ECONOMY?

Concluding his definitive series, EU MP DANIEL HANNAN says forget the Remain camp’s Project Fear. The real risk lies with staying in... Yesterday in his insider’s account of the EU, Euro MP Daniel Hannan exposed Britain’s impotence in trying to deal with Brussels. Here, in the final part of his powerful series, he insists that our future could be very bright indeed — as long as we vote to leave... Euro enthusiasts love to sneer at Brexiters like me: ‘So what’s your alternative? D’you want Britain to be like Norway? All cold and empty? ‘Or like Switzerland? Making chocolate? And cuckoo clocks? That’s what you want, is it? Eh?’ It’s tempting simply to answer that, if you’re in a structurally unsafe building, the obvious alternative to remaining is walking out. And with the migration and euro crises deepening, the EU is just that — structurally unsafe. So much so that staying in is a greater risk than leaving. But I know, too, that fear of change is deep in people’s genomes, and we tend to vote accordingly. Given the chance to win something of greater value by staking something of lesser value, we tend to make the mathematically irrational decision to stick with what we’ve got. As Remain campaigners are well aware, referendums the world over tend to be won by whichever side is opposing change. And they can hardly be blamed for making change-aversion their key argument. They don’t want to get drawn into arguments about democracy, or sovereignty, or the EU’s declining share of the world economy, or border control, or Britain’s budget contributions. They’d much rather conjure up unspecific, inchoate fears about change. Fear of the unknown has become the mainstay of their case. One pro-EU friend, a Conservative MP, put it to me: ‘It’s like banks. Everyone moans about their bank. But how many people take their accounts elsewhere?’ To which I reply: Well, you’d move your account pretty sharpish if you thought the bank might fail. In my view, the EU is now so rickety that sticking with it can hardly be called risk-averse. Voting to leave is now the safer option. What people need to understand before they choose which box to tick is that there is no status quo in this referendum. What we face, rather, is a choice between two futures, both of which we can sketch with some confidence. One future involves being part of the continuing political amalgamation of the EU, a process that has been rumbling along since 1956, but in which we will cede control over the larger questions of foreign affairs, economics, security, human rights and citizenship to Brussels institutions. The other involves a new relationship based on a common market, not a common government. A vote to leave will result in a trade-only deal with the EU. We will remain part of the European free trade zone that stretches from non-EU Iceland to non-EU Turkey. No one in Brussels argues that Britain would leave that common market if it left the EU. Given that every non-EU territory from the Faroe Islands to Montenegro has access to the European free trade area, it would be preposterous to claim that the UK, uniquely, would be denied full market access.

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This is obvious when we consider that the balance of UK-EU trade is very much in our favour. The UK market is worth £289 billion, so the EU is hardly likely to turn its back on us. Indeed, it needs our market more than we need theirs, so it is absurd to claim that non-participation in the various political structures in Brussels would mean trade coming to a halt. We will keep our trade links and, like every other independent state, we will negotiate our own deal on departure, tailored to suit our own conditions and needs. Will it be the Swiss, Norwegian or Icelandic model? No, none of these. It will be one especially for us. In terms of trade, Norway gets a better deal than Britain currently does, and Switzerland a better deal than Norway. But a post-EU Britain, with 65 million people compared to Switzerland’s eight million and Norway’s five million, could expect something better yet. But won’t we still have to conform to huge chunks of EU rules when we are outside, just as Norway and Iceland do? Gasping and swooning with all the theatricality of Victorian matrons, EU supporters have claimed this as a clincher in their case. Yet that issue has proved to be more a problem in theory than in practice. Between 2000 and 2013, the EU generated 52,183 legal instruments, of which Norway and Iceland adopted fewer than 10 per cent (and the Swiss none at all). In that same period, Britain, by contrast, had to apply 100 per cent of EU regulations to its economy. So even if we had to settle for a Norway or an Iceland-style agreement — which we won’t — we would be far better off out. The very fact of mentioning Norway and Switzerland will lead to more scoffing from the pro-EU campaign. ‘How can you possibly compare us to those countries?’ they will ask. ‘Britain is very different.’ So, if Norway and Switzerland are too exotic for a true comparison, how about Guernsey in the Channel Islands? Guernsey is an English-speaking, common law, parliamentary democracy. Its currency is the pound. Its head of state is the Queen. It is, for certain purposes, in political union with the UK. Its political system resembles ours in every way. Except one. Guernsey is outside the EU. Essentially, it opts into the economic aspects of EU membership, but opts out of everything else. The Channel Islands are outside the Common Fisheries Policy, outside the Common Agricultural Policy (except for import duties on non-EU produce) and outside the common rules on justice, home affairs, foreign policy, employment law and environmental regulation. Guernsey is part of a free-movement area with the UK and Ireland, but controls immigration from the rest of the EU. Indeed, startlingly to British eyes, it really does have an immigration policy: its legislators vote on whom to admit, on what terms and in what numbers. They set an annual population target, and issue their residence permits accordingly, mainly taking in temporary workers from Latvia and Madeira. They are currently debating how many Syrian refugees they might take in.

Parliamentary sovereignty evidently suits the people of Guernsey. Their economy has been growing steadily at around 3 per cent a year, their GDP per capita is one of the highest in the world, unemployment is in the hundreds and crime is virtually non-existent. Ah, say EU supporters, but Guernsey is a tax haven — that’s why it is doing so well. If, by that, they mean there are lower taxes in Guernsey because — unfettered by Brussels — they can run their own affairs efficiently and attract investment, this is surely an argument for leaving. ‘But you can’t compare us to Guernsey,’ the scoffers will then cry. ‘It’s tiny!’ But are we seriously supposed to think that small nations can thrive outside the EU, but large ones can’t? It’s extraordinary how quickly EU supporters switch from ‘Britain has to be part of a bigger bloc’ to ‘You can’t compare us to small countries’.

Apparently, we’re simultaneously too large and too small to prosper. The Chief Minister of Guernsey is a hugely impressive man called Jonathan Le Tocq, one of the last islanders to have been brought up speaking the local Norman French dialect. He studied in Paris and feels very European. But what he prizes above all is the sense of accountability intrinsic in the island’s parliamentary system. ‘People know that they’re in control,’ he told me. ‘If they don’t like a policy, they can get it changed’. Extraordinary, really, that such a thing should need saying. Extraordinary, too, that Britain, which developed and exported the sublime idea that laws should not be passed, nor taxes raised, except by elected representatives, should now look enviously at its Crown possessions off the Normandy coast.

OUR PESSIMISM ABOUT OUR COUNTRY’S ABILITY IS STAGGERING Please imagine that you are on a bus whose destination — a federalist United States of Europe — is clearly marked on the front. Just in case any passengers have missed the point, the driver keeps calling out the stops ahead: common European taxation, a unified welfare system, an EU army. If you don’t want to go to any of those stops, let alone the final destination, what should you do? Should you remain motionless in your seat as the bus purrs along its route? Or should you politely get off and wave it on its way? Yes, it takes nerve to do so, and Remainers play on our anxiety about change. The EU might be remote, they say, it might be self-serving, frustrating and arrogant and expensive and wasteful and corrupt, but can we be sure that the alternative won’t be even worse? The implicit pessimism here, the low opinion of Britain and her capabilities, is staggering. Other countries take it for granted that they can live under their own laws while working with neighbours and allies. New Zealand shows no interest in merging with Australia, yet the Kiwis are not written off as insular Australo-sceptics who have failed to adjust to the modern world. Japan is not applying to join China. But people don’t hector the Japanese for being nostalgic Sinosceptics who simply can’t get over the loss of their empire. Self-government is the normal condition for a modern democracy. What we need is the self-confidence to grasp it while we can. Are we prepared to use our faculty for reason, rather than be swayed by instinctive risk aversion? Are we prepared to aim, calmly and reasonably, for an economics-based deal that would suit both sides better than the current rancour? Because, if not, the alternative is too awful to contemplate. What, then, of a vote to leave? Where will that take us? I have a very clear vision of what it will be like in an independent Britain if we’re bold and determined. Just think ahead a few years. It is 2020, and the UK is flourishing outside the EU. The rump EU, now a united bloc and known officially as the European Federation, continues its genteel decline, but Britain has become the most successful and competitive knowledgebased economy in the region. Our universities attract the world’s brightest students.

We lead the way in software, biotech, law, finance and the audio-visual sector. We have forged a distinctive foreign policy, allied to Europe, but giving due weight to the U.S., India and other common law, Anglophone democracies. More intangibly, but no less significantly, we have recovered our self-belief. As Nicolas Sarkozy, president of the European Federation, crossly puts it: ‘In economic terms, Britain is Hong Kong to Europe’s China, Singapore to our Indonesia.’ We remain full members of the EU’s common market, covered by free movement of goods, services and capital, but we have also made a slew of free-trade agreements with the rest of the world, including the U.S., India and Australia. Non-EU trade matters more than ever. Since 2010, every region in the world has experienced significant economic growth, except Europe. The prosperity of distant continents has spilled over into Britain. Our Atlantic ports, above all Glasgow and Liverpool, are entering a second golden age. London, too, is booming. Eurocrats never had much sympathy for financial services. As their regulations took effect in Frankfurt, Paris and Milan — a financial transactions tax, a ban on short selling, restrictions on clearing, a bonus cap, windfall levies, micro-regulation of funds — waves of young financiers brought their talents to the City instead. Our farmers, freed from the Common Agricultural Policy, are world-beating. Our fisheries are, once again, a great renewable resource. Breaking free from the EU’s rules on data management made Hoxton in East London the global capital for software design. Scrapping EU rules on clinical trials has allowed Britain to recover its place as a world leader in medical research. Universities no longer waste their time on Kafkaesque EU grant applications. Now, they compete on quality, attracting talent from every continent and charging accordingly. Immigration is keenly debated. Every year, Parliament votes on how many permits to make available for students, medical workers and refugees. Every would-be migrant can compete on an equal basis: the rules that privileged Europeans over Commonwealth citizens, often with family links to Britain, were dropped immediately after independence.

Unsurprisingly, other European states have opted for a similar deal to ours, including Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Turkey and Georgia. The result is that the United Kingdom leads a 21-state bloc that forms a common market with the remaining members of the European Federation, but is outside its political structures. Meanwhile, the 25 countries of the Federation have pushed ahead with full integration, including a European army and police force and harmonised taxes, prompting Ireland and the Netherlands to announce referendums on whether to follow Britain. Best of all, we have cast off the pessimism that infected us during our EU years, the sense that we were too small to make a difference. We are the fifth largest economy on Earth, the fourth military power, a leading member of the G7, a permanent seat-holder on the UN Security Council. We are home to the world’s greatest city and most widely spoken language. Our brands, from Wimbledon to Manchester United, from the Duchess of Cambridge to Downton Abbey, are recognised around the world. We used to think of ourselves — in the phrase once used by the veteran actress Emma Thompson as an argument for staying in — as a ‘tiny little island’. But not any more. And, from our position of independence, we know we have plenty more to give. This brave new world I have outlined here is within our grasp, if we bite the bullet and vote to leave the EU at the referendum in June. Two futures beckon. Neither can be foreknown with total certainty. But there is one thing we know in our bones: a confident country does not fear to follow her own path. As the poet Robert Frost wrote: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less travelled by, And that has made all the difference.

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ANNA SOUBRY MP AND SMALL BUSINESS MINISTER, WRITING IN THE TIMES

TO REMAIN OR LEAVE? WHICHEVER SIDE YOU’RE ON, THE EU DEBATE IS HOTTING UP What is good for Britain’s small companies is good for Britain. When small businesses are stronger, when they are better able to win orders, deal with cashflow and purchase more intelligently, our whole economy is stronger too. This is why I am so concerned by the possibility that Britain could vote to leave the European Union and find ourselves cut off from our biggest customer. It is the greatest threat facing Britain’s small businesses. The EU’s single market is our home market. It is the largest economic bloc in the world, the home to 500 million consumers and the destination of almost half our exports. It benefits smaller companies in two key ways — by ending barriers to trade both at and beyond the border. At the border, the EU has eliminated tariffs on all products traded between its member states. This means the 200,000 British businesses which sell to Europe face no barriers to exporting to the world’s largest market. Likewise, any business that sources products from Europe benefits from this free trade. Research by the independent Centre for Economics and Business Research has found that quitting the single market and trading under World Trade Organisation rules would increase the cost of imports by £11 billion a year. There are complaints about the red tape that emanates from Europe and its impact on smaller businesses, but often being part of a club of nations means fewer burdensome rules to adhere to, and boxes to tick, not more. For example, beyond the border, the EU has created a framework of regulation, collapsing 28 different sets of national rules into one European standard. This has cut the red tape that hits small business the most and made it much easier for them to start their export journey by selling into Europe.

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Of all British small firms that export, 88 per cent do so to the EU and only 13 per cent sell to the big emerging markets. And the single market is being extended into services, which are our greatest strength. The benefits will be incalculable, the costs of being outside it not worth thinking about. I do not believe the EU to be perfect. Some small businesses say that EU regulations are, at times, too heavy-handed and unsympathetic to their needs. That is why the prime minister’s success in his renegotiation in securing a commitment to cut red tape is so important. In most cases, we would need to copy EU standards even if we left, as Norway does. What is better for small business: being forced to implement rules we have no say over, or having British ministers and officials at the table in Brussels fighting to secure the best deal for UK plc? The Treasury estimates that if we adopted the Canada-style free trade deal with the EU, our economy would be 6 per cent smaller by 2030, worth £4,300 for the average household. This is far from the worst case scenario. The Canada deal has taken years to negotiate and has still not been ratified, while other studies by independent organisations such as the London School of Economics find the cost of leaving Europe to be higher. Small business owners understand that staying in Europe is by far the best choice. Those who want us to leave the EU are asking British business to take an extraordinary risk. A leap in the dark away from our home market and towards unspecified and unlikely benefits of an exit would hit exports, purchasing and economic stability. EU membership is the best option for our small businesses and therefore, it is the best option for Britain.

CIDER-MAKER THAT KNOWS ITS APPLES

Four generations of the Thatcher family have been crafting their Somerset cider at Myrtle Farm, from 1904 right through to the present day. Its smooth and refreshing Thatchers Gold is available in every Wetherspoon pub.

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our Wetherspoon local is the ideal location for some summer socialising.

And… what better way to spend quality time, with friends and family, than enjoying a taste of Somerset, wherever you are in the UK? Among our selection of draught ciders is the great-tasting Somerset cider Thatchers Gold (4.8% ABV) – a medium-dry, golden cider, smooth and refreshing, blended using Thatchers’ favourite apples, including Dabinett, Porter’s Perfection and Harry Masters Jersey. Flavour Thatchers crafts passion into its ciders at Myrtle Farm. All of its ciders, like Thatchers Gold, are full of flavour and have a distinctive character reflecting English cider-making at its best. At the heart of its cider-making is its knowledge of apples. Thatchers’ cider-makers know each variety of apple inside out, its characteristics and how it contributes to the cider. Take Dabinett – it’s a traditional bittersweet variety which lends a smooth lasting flavour, while Somerset Redstreak, a West Country favourite, is used for its peppery notes. It’s not just bittersweet (or cider) apples which Thatchers uses: dessert (or eating) apples are an important part of the blend too. The Katy apple, one of Thatchers’ favourites, brings softness to the cider, while the Falstaff apple brings a light and fruity aroma.

Orchard Thatchers has over 400 acres of its own orchards in Somerset, where the family has been making cider since 1904. At that time, it was William Thatcher who started to make cider to give to his workers as part of their wages – he quickly gained a reputation for making the best-tasting cider around. His son Stan then started to sell his wares to local pubs, before third-generation John took over the reins. Now, it’s Martin’s turn, continuing in his great-grandfather’s footsteps of making the best cider around!

All great cider starts in the orchard

Heritage Part of Thatchers’ heritage is its 150-year-old giant oak vats, where thousands of pints of Somerset cider are matured. Here, the cider is gently nurtured, usually for around six weeks, while the oak softens and rounds the flavours, allowing the apple characteristics to shine through. Every Friday at 12.30, the Thatchers cider-makers taste the cider from each vat, to judge whether it’s ready for the next step of its journey – if it’s not, it’s left to mature a little longer before it leaves the gates of Myrtle Farm. Taste it for yourself, today, at your local Wetherspoon.

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 63

OUR CHARITY

Wetherspoon’s CLIC Sargent charity darts tournament

£207,283

FRIARS ON FIRE AT DARTS CONTEST The Friar Penketh, in Warrington, was crowned champion in the finals of the annual Wetherspoon CLIC Sargent charity darts tournament. Team captain and pub manager Tom Quinn, together with his winning team mates Charles Commins, Steve Flannery, Baharm Nikroo and Mike Harrison, beat The William Shenstone (Halesowen) in the final. A dozen of the best teams from pubs across the UK went head to head at The Soloman Cutler (Birmingham), attended by special guest 10-times Women’s World Darts champion Trina Gulliver (pictured with the winning team). Tom Quinn said: “We lost in the final last year, so are really happy to win this time – it is a great feeling! The whole event is a lot of fun, and CLIC Sargent is a brilliant charity. “We will be hoping to do well next year and defend our title.” Teams from The Quay (Poole) and The John Jacques (Portsmouth) lost out in the semi-finals, while The Rohan Kanhai (Ashington), Sir John Stirling Maxwell (Glasgow), The Joseph Conrad (Lowestoft) and The Free Man (Nottingham) made it to the quarter finals. The darts tournament has been held annually by Wetherspoon staff since 2013. Throughout January, more than 80 pubs hosted area heats, in which teams of five compete. A record 617 teams signed up to the area heats. The event raised £207,283.50. Richard Marriner, Wetherspoon’s regional manager and darts event organiser, said: “The tournament goes from strength to strength every year, with more teams than before taking part in 2016. “A huge thankyou to Trina for supporting the event this year. Thanks also to everyone taking part, those helping to organise or supporting and for making it such a huge success.” Kate Lee, CLIC Sargent’s chief executive, said: “It was a fantastic day – and there was a great atmosphere. We are all very grateful at CLIC Sargent for the incredible support we receive from Wetherspoon and its employees and customers.”

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The Harry Clasper, Whickham

£356

Bar associate Dan Maughan had his head shaved for charity, raising £200 in the process.

Bar associate Sammy Thompson also lent a hand, shaving the other half of Dan’s head!

He is pictured at the event in The Harry Clasper, in Whickham, with hairdresser Rebeca Rimington from Diva hairdresser’s, in the Tyne and Wear town.

A Valentine’s raffle at the pub raised a further £156 for the charity coffers.

£1,039 The Poulton Elk, Poulton-le-Fylde Staff from The Poulton Elk have once again taken over a charity shop in the town, for a fundraising event. A week of sales at a ‘pop-up’ CLIC Sargent charity shop in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, generated £565. The empty shop, owned by the town’s Methodist church, is available for anyone to apply to use to raise funds for their chosen charity. Applicants have to stock and staff it, with 10 per cent of the takings going to the church.

The Elihu Yale, Wrexham

£565 Shift manager Katy Farquhar, who organised the fundraising initiative for the second successive year, is pictured (right) with bar associate Emily Ronson. Katy said: “The event was a great success last year, so we decided to do it again, and managed to raise a little bit more than last time. “Thank you to everyone for their donations of items and money, and for helping us to raise funds for the charity.”

£140

A Wetherspoon regular customer, who last year helped to raise £1,000 in a charity head-shave at his local, has sadly passed away – but not before leaving a specific fundraising request.

Pub manager Andy Hodgson said: “His family is very happy that he left the money to the appeal, as the CLIC Sargent charity was very dear to him, as were all his friends here at the pub.”

Evan Hughes, a regular at The Elihu Yale, left his family instructions that proceeds from his funeral service collection, which subsequently raised £140, should go to Wetherspoon’s CLIC Sargent appeal at the pub in Wrexham.

Shift leader and CLIC Sargent champion Jayne Leigh is pictured (right) with a photograph of Evan, together with his widow Diana and son John Evan-Hughes.

The Winter Gardens, Harrogate A 12-hour cycle challenge at The Winter Gardens raised £1,039. Customers visiting the pub in Harrogate, which was celebrating the launch of the Wetherspoon beer festival, generously made cash donations, while members of staff took it in turn to keep the exercise bikes’ pedals moving. Between 9am and 9pm, staff members took it in turn, for half-hour shifts, on the bikes. There was also a cake sale and tombola, which boosted the charity coffers. Kitchen manager Hany Ishak (left) and shift leader Ricky Hartley are pictured taking part in the challenge.

The Banker’s Draft, Eltham

£230

The Banker’s Draft, in Eltham, marked the Cheltenham Festival 2016 with a week-long celebration. Staff at the pub dressed as jockeys – and a ‘sweepstake’ raffle, to win a craft beer hamper, raised £230.18 for the charity coffers. All of the races, from the Cheltenham Festival week – considered to be the horseracing highlight of the jump season, were shown on the screens at the pub. Pub manager Cathie Cunningham, pictured right with bar associate Kirsty Rolfe, said: “We have a large group of local regular customers who are all very keen racing fans – and the week was a great community get-together event.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 65

OUR CHARITY

BLAIZE OF GLORY FOR UNITED STAR

Pub manager Ben Plunkett is pictured (left) with former Manchester United and England winger Lee Sharpe (centre) at The Bishop Blaize, in Manchester.

The pub, in Stretford, just a stone’s throw from United’s home ground Old Trafford, held a charity sportsman dinner, hosted by Pete Boyle (right). The evening raised £1,500. An all-ticket crowd of 152 event-goers enjoyed a three-course meal, charity raffle and entertainment from comedian Andrew Ryan, as well as stories and a question-and-answer session with Lee Sharpe. Customers were also able to enjoy a pint of Sharpies Blonde (4.0% ABV) a pale ale brewed by Barnsley-based Acorn Brewery, a limited-edition ale for the occasion. Ben said: “Andrew came to our first-ever sportsman’s dinner – and it was great to have him back at The Bishop Blaize.

£1,500

“The event was a great success with customers (many of them United fans) enjoying Lee’s career memories.”

MATT RUNS 500 MILES, THEN RUNS 500 MORE

MARATHON MAN SET TO RUN AND RUN AT PICTURE HOUSE Pub manager Rich Gratsa has set himself a tough charity challenge for 2016.

Rich, who runs The Picture House, in Sutton-in-Ashfield, is taking part in a half marathon, full marathon and ultra marathon, all before midsummer’s day. He completed the Coventry half marathon (February) in one hour 42 minutes, the Manchester marathon (April) in three hours, 53 minutes, 24 seconds and is set to take part in a 69-mile ultra marathon on 18 June. Ex-army man Rich, 36, who completed a 100-mile bike ride in his pub last year, in aid of the Royal British Legion, enjoys endurance challenges and thought that this trio of competitions was ‘something a bit different’. He said: “The original idea for the ultra marathon was a two-man

team; however, sadly, my friend and training partner Colin Bowler died from Hodgkin lymphoma last year, aged just 24. “I decided to continue with our plan and run ‘Rat Race – The Wall 2016’, a 69-mile route following Hadrian’s Wall, all in under 24 hours. “The training is full on, getting up at stupid o’clock and building up the miles, before going to work. “Everyone thinks I’m nuts, but they are all very supportive and I am thinking positively about the goal.” Rich’s fundraising goal of £2,000 for CLIC Sargent is well on the way, with £1,245 collected so far. Fundraising events at the pub have contributed to the total with bar associate Tazz Thorne organising a bake sale and team leader Nick Mills’ head shave amassing £500. To donate: www.justgiving.com/ Richard-Gratsa5

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£695 Wetherspoon’s fooddevelopment manager, Matt Elsdon, turned a personal challenge into a charity fundraising opportunity, collecting £695.

He said: “It was always a personal challenge – and the charity money was an added bonus in the end. I didn’t set out with sponsorship in mind, as you never know what might happen throughout the year.

Matt, who has worked at our head office in Watford for “However, by October, the past six years, is a keen I was confident that I would runner and was regularly achieve my goal, so started completing a half marathon to collect sponsorship and every month. He wanted donations for CLIC Sargent.” to step up that challenge for himself, by attempting Matt ran a total of 1,026 miles to achieve a half marathon during 2015, taking part in (13.1 miles/21 km) every week, events in towns and cities throughout 2015. across England, Scotland and Wales, as well as in Combining organised Dublin – the highlight being events across the UK with the atmosphere at the Great his own measured runs, Matt North Run. completed an incredible 53 half marathons during last year.

The Windmill, Stansted Airport The Windmill, at Stansted Airport, joined forces with airport staff to organise a charity fundraiser  – with a (lemon) twist! The Shrove Tuesday event saw those passengers travelling from Stansted compete in a pancaketossing competition, to see how many flips they could achieve in one minute.

Claire Stancliffe, flying to Seville for a football tournament with St John’s Deaf FC, was judged the winner and received shopping vouchers in recognition of her efforts. Michael Wilkins, pub manager at The Windmill, said: “Thanks to everyone who helped to organise the event and to those who took part and donated for a great charity cause. It was a lot of fun.”

PHOTO CREDIT : STANSTED AIRPORT

Numerous travellers took up the fun challenge, raising pancakes, a few eyebrows and £300 into the bargain.

£1,270

£300

Viv Bambrough, Stansted Airport’s terminal co-ordinator and chairman of the airport’s charity committee, told the Herts and Essex Observer newspaper: “Both passengers and staff had a brilliant time, and, to top it all off, we managed to raise money for a fabulous charity.” The Looking Glass, Warrington

The Spinning Mill, Ballymena Pub manager Staff and customers at The Krystal Schollick, pictured Spinning Mill pulled out centre with staff members all the stops in a ‘Big CLIC Stacey Blaney (left) and Challenge’ event, raising Lydia Byrne said: “The idea £1,270 in the process. was to cram all of last year’s The pub, in Ballymena, charity activities into one hosted a fantastic and fun bumper day and to try extravaganza with all its to match the total fundraising activities from amount raised. 2015 taking place again, but in just one day.

There was a bake sale, bath of beans, cycle challenge, leg-waxing, head shave, nail bar, Euro-Millions bonus ball, board game competition and face-painting.

“Thanks to everyone who took part in all of the fun and fundraising.” Five members of staff also ran as a relay team in the Belfast City marathon (May 2).

Customers at The Looking Glass, in Warrington, are treated to regular homemade cakes and goodies, courtesy of shift manager Hayley Willis. Keen baker Hayley makes cup cakes, tray bakes and doughnuts every week – to be sold in aid of charity. The latest cake sale raised £248.

£248

Willing 12-year-old helpers on the Saturday stall, which also includes a book sale, are (left to right) Hayley’s daughter Chloe Smith, kitchen associate Louise Driscoll’s daughter Halle and family friend Amber Leah.

£2,063

£230

The Regal, Cambridge

The downstairs bar at The Regal was transformed into a comedy club, for a one-night charity fundraiser. The event, at the pub in Cambridge, was hosted by Byron Geldard (pictured) and collected £230. Byron was diagnosed with stage 4 testicular cancer two years ago, aged just 18. Now in remission, he is a keen fundraiser for cancer charities, including CLIC Sargent, which assisted him during treatment. Customers gave cash donations on the night, while Byron and several other comedy acts entertained the audience. Chloe Hall, duty manager and CLIC champion at The Regal, said: “The event was a great success and hopefully the start of regular comedy night evenings at the pub.” The Chequers Inn, Stourbridge Bar associate and top ticket seller Simon Hanson (left), team leader Richard Jevons and bar associate Tami Field are pictured at The Chequers Inn, in Stourbridge.

The Coinage Hall, Helston In the first four months since opening, charity fundraising at The Coinage Hall has topped £1,200. Duty manager and CLIC Sargent Champion Beth Hughes (pictured) has helped to organise regular cake sales and staff fancy-dress days to exceed the Helston pub’s monthly fundraising targets. Prior to an Easter event, the total stood at £1,210.61, since November 2015. A family fun-day, with face-painting, egg hunt, raffle and egg-and-spoon race, as well as a meet-and-greet with a CLIC Sargent teddy bear mascot (pictured), added £353.26 to the charity coffers. Five members of staff also joined colleagues from pubs across Cornwall, to take part in a sponsored skydive, collectively raising £500 in the charity jump event.

£305

The pub raised £305 with its Easter hamper raffle – won by regular customer and Stourbridge resident Sarah Wood. www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 67

OUR CHARITY

FROM YOU TO THEM: CLIC SARGENT TOTAL HITS £12M Wetherspoon has reached another amazing milestone in its fundraising efforts for CLIC Sargent.

Our fantastic staff and customers have now amassed more than £12 million to support young cancer patients, raising the equivalent of £850,000 every year since becoming a charity partner in 2002. Over the last 14 years, staff and customers have taken part in countless fundraising activities for the charity which provides social, financial, emotional and clinical support for children and young people with cancer – and their families. Recent fundraisers have included the staff darts competition, raising more than £200,000, and the annual Kick five-a-side tournament, in which 550 teams from pubs around the UK took part, raising more than £460,000. Wetherspoon’s chairman, Tim Martin, said: “We are extremely proud of our association with CLIC Sargent. Since 2002, our staff and customers have brilliantly supported our fundraising efforts. “The fact that we have now raised £12 million for such a wonderful charity is thanks to them. We look forward to raising even more money in the future.”

CLIC Sargent’s chief executive, Kate Lee, said: “We are truly blown away by this spectacular fundraising total. “The money raised by Wetherspoon helps us to provide vital support for young cancer patients. Hundreds of families will have benefited directly from these funds. “Wetherspoon is our longest-standing charity partner and has been an incredible support to so many children and young people with cancer. “We are so immensely grateful for the fundraising effort put in by staff and customers which has enabled them to reach this amazing total.” Pictured at CLIC Sargent’s Paul’s House, London, are (left to right) Charlie Straker (CLIC Sargent corporate account co-ordinator), Wetherspoon’s head of personnel & training Caroline Walters and Jemma Syms (CLIC Sargent’s corporate events executive).

£1,200

£585 The Moon and Sixpence, Hatch End The Jack Fairman, Horley Staff members from Wetherspoon pubs across West Sussex and Surrey joined forces to raise £1,200 in a charity quiz night. Area manager Tim Hine (left) and pub manager Ross Markwick (back centre) organised the event, at Ross’s pub, The Jack Fairman, in Horley. Duty manager Barry Chapman was the quiz master, with questions including those covering sport, movies, general knowledge and a picture round. A total of 20 teams of four players took part, comprising staff from pubs in Tim’s area, with the team from The Jubilee Oak, Crawley, winning the competition. 68 > WETHERSPOON > Summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Comedy writer and performer Barry Cryer (right) lent a hand by compering at a charity fundraising event on St George’s Day, at The Moon and Sixpence. The bike ride challenge, at the pub in Hatch End, saw three teams complete 100 miles each on three exercise bikes, kindly donated by Harrow Leisure Centre, together with a team of four personal trainers. The fundraiser, organised by shift leader Simon Mowle, pictured centre with pub manager Josie Kennedy, amassed £585 towards his 300-mile London-to- Paris bike ride, in July. There was also a raffle and a live band during the evening, to celebrate the occasion.

PUB NEWS SHAMROCK YES, SHAM BEER NO: IRISH ALE’S ST PATRICK’S DAY DÉBUT Wetherspoon pubs across the UK marked St Patrick’s Day (Thursday 17 March) by serving a selection of Irish drinks.

Guinness, Jameson Irish Whiskey and Magners Original Draught cider were all being served, as well as an exclusive beer for the occasion. O’Hara’s JDW Irish Red (4.5% ABV) was brewed exclusively for J D Wetherspoon, at Everards Brewery, Leicester, by Conor Donoghue from Carlow Brewing, Republic of Ireland. Carlow Brewing Company is an independent family-owned brewery, based in County Carlow, approximately one hour’s drive from Dublin. One of the pioneers of Irish craft brewing, it is celebrating its 20th year this year. Conor said: “This was my first brew for Wetherspoon, and our Irish Red was a bronze medal-winner at The Great International Beer Festival, in Rhode Island, in 2014.

At The Bridge House, pub manager Tommy McGibbon serves pints of O’Hara’s JDW Irish Red to customers Maria Madden (left) and Shauneen Reynolds as they celebrate St Patrick’s Day, in Belfast

“The beer is a classic Irish red ale, although it is different from the usual O’Hara’s Irish Red Ale, as we have changed the recipe to make it a little more suitable to cask ale.” A deep red best bitter style beer, O’Hara’s JDW Irish Red is made with Challenger and East Kent Goldings hops. The aroma is dominated by caramel, with hints of coffee and hops, leading to a smooth malt flavour, with caramel notes and an emerging sweetness in the finish. The ale was also among the 50 festival ales available throughout the Wetherspoon real-ale festival.

Pub manager Leanne Surtees celebrates St Patrick’s Day with bar associate Kate McDermott and shift manager Rebecca Bell (left to right) at The Five Swans, in Newcastle

HORSESHOE FITS FOR FUNNY WALKERS Staff and customers at The Horseshoe in Wombwell welcomed comedians Jo Brand and Lee Mack to the pub for much-needed refreshment. Jo was taking part in her BT Sport Relief Challenge, ‘Hell of a Walk’, walking 135 miles from Humber to Liverpool, in seven days. Day four of the challenge, from Harlington to Langsett, passed by the pub, with Lee Mack supporting Jo that day. A BBC crew filmed the event at the pub, for this year’s Sport Relief Challenge. A local group from Age UK was invited along to meet Jo and enjoy drinks and a chat with her about her challenge. The 15-strong crowd stayed long after Jo had left to continue her walk from one side of the country to the other. Holly Wilkinson, duty manager at The Horseshoe, said: “It was a bit of excitement for the staff. “We were delighted to host the BBC and also enjoyed the visit from the Age UK group members, who all stayed for lunch after filming.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

l  Wetherspoon has been named by consumers, in the Market

Force Information survey, as the best pub and bar eatery. More than 4,500 consumers were asked to rate their experience at a range of pub groups and also how likely they were to recommend them to others.

l   The Lord High Constable of England, in Gloucester Docks, is listed

in ‘8 places to go for a slap-up breakfast in Gloucester’ in the Gloucester Citizen newspaper. It states: “Wetherspoon’s pubs are becoming a popular destination at breakfast time, mainly due to their wallet-friendly prices and coffee refills.”

l The Linen Weaver was nominated in two categories at the

prestigious Irish Restaurant Awards 2016. The pub in Cork, which opened in September 2015, was listed among the nominees in both the ‘best gasto pub’ and ‘best newcomer’ category. The annual awards, now in their eighth year, are organised by the Restaurant Association of Ireland submitted online (irishtimes.com) by the public, before the various stages of judging take place.

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DRINK

PIMM’S: GET YOUR NO.1 CUP FROM THE WORLD’S NO.1 SELLER

The recipe for Pimm’s is still a closely guarded secret, 193 years after its invention, but the secret of how best to serve and drink it is one which Wetherspoon staff are happy to share

W

arm sunny days and a long glass of cool Pimm’s epitomise the quintessential British summer.

And Wetherspoon is the number-one seller worldwide of the world’s best-selling fruit cup – that's official. We offer the classic Pimm’s glass and pitcher, mixed with lemonade and filled with orange, lemon, lime, cucumber and mint – for that perfect summer cocktail – a combination which continues to stand the test of time. Sun To complement it perfectly, many of our pubs also have a beer garden attached, so that you can enjoy a refreshing glass of cold Pimm’s in the summer sun – the way it is best enjoyed. Pimm’s was created in 1823 by James Pimm, a man who owned an oyster bar, in Lombard Street, London – and created a delicious liqueur, infused with fruits and herbs, to serve to his customers.

That’s a Fact l Pimm’s was created by

James Pimm and offered at his London oyster bar as an aid to digestion, served in a ‘No.1 Cup’, which is how the Pimm’s No.1 name originated.

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l Pimm’s No.1 Cup spirit drink is still made to the original recipe which remains a closely guarded secret, known only to six of Pimm’s top people, called ‘the secret six’.

The customers loved the new drink, served in large vessels known as ‘cups’ at his establishment, so much that he set up a distillery to cope with demand, making his Pimm’s No.1 to distribute far and wide. Globe Over the next 50 years, the drink’s popularity soared and Pimm’s was sold around the world in all corners of the British Empire. Today, the summer cup is more popular than ever, with ‘Pimm’s o’clock’ enjoyed all over the globe. Pimm’s No.1 Cup is still based on greattasting gin, with overlaying notes of spice, citrus, botanicals and fruit extract which create an enticing dark red tint and great flavour. This secret combination is what makes Pimm’s such a great spirit for mixing.

GUINNESS WORLD RECORD In the summer of 2014, Wetherspoon took part in a world record attempt for ‘Most pitchers sold in 24 hours (in multiple venues)’, which was completed and confirmed by Guinness World Records.

l The spirit base of Pimm’s No.1 is gin, but, originally, there were six varieties of Pimm’s, with bases of Scotch whisky, brandy, rum, rye whiskey and vodka.

NEWS

GOOL PERAN LOWEN IS ORDER OF THE DAY AT CORNISH PUBS Once again, Wetherspoon’s pubs in Cornwall marked St Piran’s Day (5 March) with great local produce for customers to enjoy. Our 11 pubs across the county wished regulars and visitors ‘Gool Peran Lowen!’ (Happy St Piran’s Day) in a six-day celebration of the patron saint of Cornwall. To mark the annual festival, the pubs were serving Cornwall’s Pride beer, together with a large Cornish pasty – a proper Cornish hand-crimped British beef & potato pasty. Cornwall’s Pride (4.0% ABV) is brewed by Tintagel Brewery, in Tintagel. Full-bodied malt flavours, light citrus tones and a rich amber colour mark Cornwall’s Pride as a refreshing beer inspired by Tintagel itself – the home of King Arthur.

Shift leader Mike Harrison and bar associate Lottie Owens are pictured at The Towan Blystra, in Newquay

Helen Cazaly, Wetherspoon’s area manager for Cornwall, said: “We always look forward to marking St Piran’s in style at our pubs and, once again, had two excellent Cornish products on offer during the annual celebration.” The participating pubs were: Chapel an Gansblydhen (Bodmin), The John Francis Basset (Camborne), The Packet Station (Falmouth), The Towan Blystra and The Cribbar (both Newquay), The Tremenheere (Penzance), The Green Parrot (Perranporth), The Rann Wartha (St Austell), The Hain Line (St Ives), Try Dowr (Truro) and The Coinage Hall (Helston).

At The Packet Station, in Falmouth, pub manager Nick Hill is pictured with regular customer John West

TIME WARP, GENTLEMEN, PLEASE – AT SIR TITUS SALT Pub manager Sandy Moccia and her staff and customers slipped on their suspenders, sharpened their stilettos and collected £210 in cash donations for CLIC Sargent.

Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show was playing at The Alhambra Theatre, next door to The Sir Titus Salt, in Bradford.

WEMBLEY GLORY J.J. Moon’s, in Wembley, is featured in an article titled ‘Great bits of London #94 Wembley’. The article in Time Out magazine highlights some of the reasons to visit Wembley. It states: If there’s one thing to be said about Wembley locals, it’s that they really like a Wetherspoon’s. JJ Moon’s on the High Road is … well, it’s a big Wetherspoon’s, so you know what to expect. Team leader Owen Reid is pictured at the pub.

The classic smash-hit musical was on for a week at the theatre, but it was a one-day-only event at the pub, where staff and customers all donned fancydress costumes, in true Rocky Horror style, for a fun-filled party.

please use quote from Vegan Society (still to come)

Sandy said: “The pub was packed before and after the show, for both the matinée and evening performances on the Saturday. Everyone was in fancy dress and the place was rocking, with various versions of The Time Warp regularly breaking out across the pub!” Pictured outside the theatre (left to right) are pub manager Sandy, customers Laura Fisher, Bev Fryer and Jodie Milner, team leader Marc Legrand and shift leader Louise Fletcher. www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 71

PUB NEWS FISH AND FOSSILS ARE GUESTS AT DORSET HOTEL Artwork by youngsters from a local primary school is now proudly on display in a new Wetherspoon hotel in Dorset. Year-5 and -6 pupils from St Mary’s Primary School in Bridport embarked on a six-week art project to produce work to decorate The Greyhound, in the town. The existing pub now boasts a 15-bedroom hotel, each room decorated with the mixed-media artwork from the group of 50 youngsters, aged between nine and 11 years old. The framed art shows acrylic-painted ammonite fossils, representing the Jurassic Coast of Dorset, while printed rope images made from print blocks are a reference to Bridport’s rope-making history. Clay tiles with painted fish and seaweed designs were also produced. Teaching assistant Diana Marsh, who takes the art group, said: “We worked around the hotel colour scheme of gentle blues and stone greys – and the project just evolved as we progressed with it. “Many of the ideas came from discussions with the children, who love their art, and they all thoroughly enjoyed the project.”

WHISKY FANS – TRY A WELSH ON THE ROCKS Wetherspoon’s pubs across Wales marked St David’s Day (1 March) with a week-long celebration of all things Welsh. Our 53 outlets, from Llandudno to Llanelli and Caernarfon to Cardiff, displayed flags and decorations, showcasing Welsh food and drink, including an exclusive real ale. Customers were able to toast Dydd Gwyl Dewi with a pint of Cardiff Resin (4.2% ABV), brewed exclusively for Wetherspoon by Celt Experience Brewery, in Caerphilly. This deep golden beer is gently bittered with British hops, then dry-hopped with a US variety, resulting in a smooth and hoppy character. Black Dragon (7.2% ABV), a medium-dry cider from Pontypridd-based Gwynt Y Ddraig, was also available, along with Welsh spirits Brecon Special Reserve gin and Penderyn single malt Welsh whisky. A selection of classic Welsh dishes was available on the menu, including lamb cawl, the flaming dragon chicken curry and award-winning Welsh dragon sausages (pork, leek and chilli), with mash and faggots.

l At The Malcolm Uphill, in Caerphilly, pub manager Dannie Stephens is pictured (left) with shift leader Sonia Herbert and bar associate Arran Rigby. l Pub manager Clare Gill is pictured with duty manager Ceri Jones and bar associate Shaun Oliver (back) at The Central Hotel, in Shotton. 72 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Pupils from St Mary's are pictured with one of the artwork pieces at the hotel. Left to right: Morgan Stokes, Amie Pollard, Bethany Stebbings and Cameron Hyne

KIDS’ MENU

GROWING CHOICE FOR GROWING CUSTOMERS All of our pubs offer a fantastic variety of dishes especially for children FISH AND CHIPS

I

f you have hungry mouths to feed when you are out and about with the family this summer, Wetherspoon offers some great meals for you and your children. Alongside our main menu, we serve a fantastic variety of dishes tailor made for the younger members of your family, in our excellent children’s menu.

CHICKEN BREAST BURGER

Smaller versions of our classics are available, including sausage and mash, chicken breast burger, fish and chips, spaghetti Bolognese, build-your-own chicken breast wrap and Wiltshire cured ham, fried free-range eggs and chips. Fruit There is a choice of eight children’s menu dishes, all containing at least one of your five-a-day of fruit and vegetables.

BUILDYOUR-OWN CHICKEN BREAST WRAP

If your little-ones have a favourite meal accompaniment, then, on six of our meal options, you can select from a choice of peas, baked beans and corn-on-the-cob – ensuring that they get exactly what they prefer. Looking for a meat-free option? We also serve some great veggie dishes for the youngsters, including our cheesy pasta, mini vegetable burger, tomato pomodoro pasta and our range of children’s jacket potatoes. Our children’s menu meals also include a drink as part of the great-value price, from a selection of Strathmore spring water, milk, Pepsi or lemonade, as well as five different fruit-based drinks.

Smoothie These include Happy Monkey strawberry & banana smoothie, as well as My-5 orange pineapple and grape drink. With no artificial colours, flavours, sweeteners or preservatives, My-5 is in line with the government schools standards in England. Also included with every children’s meal is a free bag of apple slices, keeping hungry youngsters happy with a healthy snack to complete their meal. Wetherspoon has been specially commended by the Soil Association ‘out to lunch campaign’ which, ‘with an army of secret diner parents’, surveyed some of the UK’s biggest and most popular chains – on their food and service offered to children. We received particular praise by the campaign for our use of sustainable cod, free-range eggs and British farm-assured beef, served in almost half a million children’s meals every month.

CHEESY PASTA

JACKET POTATOES

SAUSAGE AND MAS H

Games Our children’s menus are not just about health and nutrition either: they also provide plenty of fun and games to keep your youngsters occupied during your Wetherspoon visit. A games and drawing page is included, and each pub offers a variety of coloured pencils for children to use and take away with them. If you are looking for the perfect family dining option, our Wetherspoon children’s menu, our main menu and club meals offer great choice and value for all the family.

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COMMUNITY C A E R P H I L LY

UPHILL ALL THE WAY FOR HONOURED CADET

CARDIFF

MOUNT STUART HELPS SPREAD THE WARMTH

The Mount Stuart was the venue for a belated festive lunch, as part of a campaign to tackle loneliness.

When bar associate Arran Rigby is not working at The Malcolm Uphill, he is representing his town, county and country, on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Arran, who has worked full time at the Caerphilly pub for the past 11 months (as at May) is also a member of 1223 Caerphilly Squadron ATC, Air Cadets. He is a banner bearer and member of the Wales and West region drill banner team. An Air Cadet for the past five years, Arran was selected by staff and officers to be the Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet for 2016. He represents the Lord-Lieutenant for Gwent at special events and on parades, such as Remembrance Sunday and Armed Forces Day. The role is shared among three cadets from Army, Sea and Air. Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenants are the representatives of the Crown for each county in the United Kingdom.

Men or women of all backgrounds, they are appointed by Queen Elizabeth on the advice of the prime minister. Lord-Lieutenants are responsible for the organisation of all official royal visits to their county and also carry out other duties in their county, such as the presentation of decorations (where the recipient is unable to attend an investiture). They are also responsible for ensuring that The Queen’s Private Office is kept informed about local issues relating to their area. Arran’s role, from February 2016 to February 2017, is to accompany Lord-Lieutenant of Gwent Sir Simon Boyle, KCVO, and his successor, former Deputy Lieutenant of Gwent Brigadier Robert Aitken, CBE.

Pub manager Jayson Bales, and his team at the outlet in Cardiff, hosted 50 older people for a complimentary roast turkey meal, with all of the trimmings and a drink, in support of Age Cymru’s ‘Spread the Warmth’ initiative. Age Cymru is Wales’ largest charity for older people and runs, every winter, this campaign to make winter a better time for older people. It encourages individuals and organisations to do their bit to help older people to feel less isolated. Victoria Lloyd, director of influencing and programmes for Age Cymru, said: “We’re very grateful to Wetherspoon and the staff of The Mount Stuart for their kindness and generosity by hosting the lunch and helping to ‘Spread the Warmth’. “Winter can be a difficult and lonely time for older people and it can be difficult for them to get out and about – especially when the weather takes a turn for the worst.” Robin Simpson, 73, from Caerau, said: “What a wonderful time we had. There was a real sense of community at The Mount Stuart and I wish we could do this more often.”

Phyllis Preece, 78, from Grangetown, said: “The meal Arran, 19, said: “I was surprised to be put was lovely and I enjoyed seeing everyone. I’m really forward for the role, but delighted too. grateful that Wetherspoon and Age Cymru organised “I totally enjoy being a member of the this event for older people.” Air Cadets – and it is a big honour to be Richard Bond, Wetherspoon’s senior area manager, said: chosen at the Lord-Lieutenant’s cadet “We were delighted to support this Age Cymru initiative for this year. My family and work and host the group at The Mount Stuart.” colleagues are all extremely supportive.”

CORNWALL

HOW TO CUT CORNISH PLASTIC BOTTLE USE? WE CAN FAUCET

The 11 Wetherspoon pubs across Cornwall are supporting a new initiative to help to reduce litter in the county. Set up by cleancornwall.org, Turn on the Tap is a county-wide scheme which aims to cut down on waste, especially plastic bottles.

Participating venues offer free tap water for people to fill their water bottles, reducing litter by diverting bulky plastic bottles away from bins and the environment. The scheme aims to make it easier for people to make a choice to move away from using bottled water. Businesses taking part display window stickers, ‘Turn on the Tap – refill here – turn off the flow of litter’, so that passers-by know that they are very welcome to come in and refill their own flasks or water bottles with free tap water. 74 > WETHERSPOON > Summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

The message from the campaign is: “With a few simple changes, you can help to reduce the amount of single-use plastic in bins, landfill, the environment and, ultimately, our future.”

Jon Willing (pictured), pub manager at Chapel an Gansblydhen, in Bodmin, one of the participating pubs, said: “We are all adding our support to this new initiative, set up by cleancornwall.org and hope that it will have an impact on our beautiful county of Cornwall.” The other participating Cornish Wetherspoon pubs are The Coinage Hall (Helston), The Cribbar and The Towan Blystra (Newquay), The Green Parrot (Perranporth), The Hain Line (St Ives), The John Francis Basset (Camborne), The Packet Station (Falmouth), The Rann Wartha (St Austell), The Tremenheere (Penzance) and Try Dowr (Truro).

R U N CO R N A N D W I D N E S

HALTON DESIST: CHESHIRE PUBS HELP TO KEEP TROUBLE AT BAY

Two Wetherspoon pubs in Cheshire are supporting a local initiative to promote responsible drinking. The Ferry Boat (Runcorn) and The Premier (Widnes) are among the licensed premises across Halton to have been awarded ArcAngel Protected Town status.

Halton became an ArcAngel Protected area in December 2011 and now has 26 recognised venues, where people can be reassured that the licensed premises they visit are well managed, regulated and safe places to enjoy a night out. The initiative, supported by Halton Council’s community safety team and Cheshire Police, targets problems relating to alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour, disorder and underage drinking. The Safer Halton Partnership believes that this initiative will reduce the number of alcohol-related incidents of disorder and assault, while offering the public a safer evening out. Christian Greenlee (pictured), who runs The Ferry Boat with Kate Webster, said: “It is the responsibility of the community as a whole to tackle alcohol-related problems, such as antisocial behaviour. “We work closely with the police and local council’s community safety team, as well as implementing our own high standards of safety – and, together, we can make this happen.” Pub manager at The Premier Michelle Fryer (also pictured) said: “We take the responsibility of our staff and customers’ safety very seriously. “We want our pubs to be friendly, safe and enjoyable environments and work hard to try to achieve this.”

B R I G H TO N

THE POST & TELEGRAPH IN PRINT AGAIN IN BRIGHTON

The Post & Telegraph features in a new book, Brighton Pubs, by beer writer David Muggleton.

The pub, which opened as a Wetherspoon outlet in December 2010, is among 45 watering holes included in the 96-page guided tour of one of Britain’s most vibrant coastal cities.

ARTIST MAISIE PUTS HERSELF IN THE PICTURE IN AFRICA Bar associate Maisie Manning has put her job on hold to take part in a fantastic volunteering opportunity. Maisie, who works at The Ivory Peg, in Chelmsford, is currently on a three-month trip to Ghana, helping the community at a cocoa farm in Asamankese, near the capital Accra.

With almost 100 illustrations, Brighton Pubs gives a detailed history of each venue, arranged into a series of five walks. Starting with a map, each chapter guides the reader around a different area of Brighton, covering the city centre, as well as the suburbs. The pubs featured are all (in some way) notable, whether by heritage and architecture, an association with famous people or a setting for historical events.

CHELMSFORD

The Post & Telegraph, which is included in the walk of the city’s cultural quarter, inhabits a grade II listed building of 1921–23, designed in the neoclassic French style of Louis XIV by architect FCR Palmer, with local firm Clayton & Black acting as executants.

David, pictured at The Post & Telegraph, said: “There were many more pubs I would ideally have liked to feature, including the city’s other two Wetherspoon outlets, The West Quay and The Bright Helm, but the book would have ended up twice the allowed word length!

Originally a bank, it was built on the site of newspaper premises once occupied by the now defunct Brighton Gazette, Hove Post and Sussex Telegraph, hence the pub’s name.

“I’m a big fan of Wetherspoon pubs: the beers are well kept and I always look forward to their regular real-ale festivals which showcase up to 50 ales from the UK and around the world.”

l Published by Amberley Publications, priced at £14.99, Brighton Pubs is

available through the city’s bookshops and from the publisher’s website: http://tinyurl.com/h7w4t4w

Maisie, 24, who is also an artist and former photography student, joined 10 other volunteers on this programme, run by Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) International Citizen Service (ICS). They will be helping to generate income on the farm, as well as work on a project to help women to find employment. Fundraising and cash collections at The Ivory Peg, as well as an art auction of her own work and sponsorship, helped Maisie to achieve her volunteer place. She told the Maldon Standard newspaper: “I have never been out of Essex for that long, but this scheme was for 18- to 25-year-olds, so I thought that this was the perfect time. “I currently sell my artwork to raise money for charity – and this is definitely my biggest venture.” Pub manager Sarah Hart said: “We are all very proud of Maisie, she is doing some really admirable work and we all support her for it. We’re really looking forward to her coming back.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 75

DESIGN CIDERFEATURE

PULPIT REMAINS, BUT SERMONS HAVE CEASED

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GEORGE’S MEETING HOUSE

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his building may have ceased life as a religious meeting place in the early 1980s; however, the Wetherspoon ‘congregation’ still enjoys many of the original features of this former Unitarian chapel in Exeter. Many of the wealthy merchant families of Exeter were so-called dissidents, who found the doctrine of the established church at that time too restricting. However, they had the money to finance their own churches. George’s Meeting House is a fine example of one such church. An 18th-century Unitarian chapel, it was built in 1760, the coronation year of George III, and consequently named George’s Meeting House. Grade 1 A listed building, gaining grade I status in January 1953, this two-storey chapel is constructed of locally produced brick and has corner block decoration of Portland stone. It has a striking façade on South Street, with the entrance portico being in Classical style, displaying Tuscan columns, a stone architrave and a shallow pitched roof. The interior is a simple rectangular space, with wooden flooring. It has square, fluted, Ionic piers around three sides, supporting a narrow oakpanelled gallery. The customer area continues from the ground floor into the upper gallery space.

Carved The 18th-century carved pulpit, decorated with carved drapery, is still in situ at one end of the pub, flanked either side by high-arched stainedglass windows. There is a large circular ceiling rose, in the centre of the church, which once held a large brass chandelier. That ceiling was lowered by three feet in 1809, at a cost of £201 18s 1d, owing to acoustics, reportedly reducing the volume of the space by one-twelfth. That space is now filled with social chatter and the clinking of drinking glasses, as well as the voices of an invited 50-strong choir, in the upper balcony area, singing carols each Christmas. Disused The church congregation declined during the 20th century and, in 1983, the building became disused. It was sold in 1987 to become an antiques centre and later the Global Village, retailing furniture and artefacts from around the world. This fine building was bought by Wetherspoon, converted, redeveloped and much preserved, opening as George’s Meeting House in January 2005. l

38 South Street, Exeter, Devon, EX1 1ED Telephone: 01392 454250

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MEET THE BREWER

Wetherspoon is committed to serving the best range of beers in its pubs, including sourcing from more than 600 microbreweries throughout the UK annually. Here, we feature two brewers whose beers are enjoyed at Wetherspoon pubs.

THE PHEASANT HAS LANDED

It’s one small sip for man, one giant gulp for mankind, as Pheasantry Brewery launches beers from birdhouse

Brewery’s name: Pheasantry Brewery, Newark, Nottinghamshire Pheasantry Brewery shot to fame when its Best Bitter won gold in the bitter category of the Champion Beer of Britain contest – at the Great British Beer Festival last year. It’s a family business, based at High Brecks Farm, near Newark in Nottinghamshire. Mark and Mary Easterbrook started brewing there in 2012, converting a dilapidated old barn next door to their cottage, once used for rearing pheasants, into a modern 10-barrel brewhouse. Ideal “We wanted to diversify the farming business,” said Mark, who spent the previous 20 years in supplychain logistics for the food industry. “I think that our brewery is the ideal size; it’s efficient and flexible enough to brew several different beers.” At the beginning, Mark did all of the brewing himself, but, as the beers grew more popular, he brought in local home-brewer Dan Mason to take charge. Fruity As well as the top-selling Pheasantry Best, the core range of what Mark describes as “easy-drinking, well-balanced beers” includes Pale Ale, Dark Ale and a 5.0% ABV fruity golden ale, called Dancing Dragonfly. In addition, Pheasantry rings the changes by making two seasonal beers each month, under its Artisan range.

Left to right: Dan Mason, Mark Easterbrook and brewery assistant Joe Whetton

Our aim is to make the most interesting beers we can, to the best of our ability

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Best The farm itself grows malting barley, making it part of the supply chain which brings best-quality ingredients to the brewery. “There’s every chance our own barley is in our beer,” said Mark. “But I’d never make that claim! “We were selling our beers in local Wetherspoon pubs almost immediately – and they’re important regular customers for us,” he went on. “Our aim is to make the most interesting beers we can, to the best of our ability – the kind of beers which bring people back for a second pint!”

MAGIC INGREDIENTS HELP TO CREATE MYTHICAL BREWS

Water engineer Tom adds Welsh folklore to science to produce Celt Experience ales

Brewery’s name: Celt Experience, Caerphilly, south Wales

Celt Experience’s Ellie Rix

Celt Experience combines cutting-edge craft brewing creativity with the imagery of ancient Welsh folklore. It was founded a decade ago in Caerphilly, south Wales, by Tom Newman, who started working for Butcombe Brewery near his home in Bristol in 1992 – even before he was legally able to buy beer in a pub! Garage In 2003, he gave up his day job as a water engineer to set up Newman’s Brewery, in his dad’s garage; within a few years, he was ready to return to his Celtic roots. “I have Welsh blood, and our branding at Celt Experience is based on weird mythology and psychedelic tales,” he said. “I’ve a big interest in the alternative; in the dark side.

The latest of these is a series of sour beers, each flavoured with a different variety of orange. However, Celt brews more familiar styles of pint, too, such as Silures Pale Ale and Bleddyn IPA, and it’s these which you’ll find in Wetherspoon’s pubs, as well as Cardiff Resin, brewed exclusively for St David’s Day this year. Capacity “We’ve always worked with Wetherspoon – and that’s been important for our core range,” said Tom. “We have a 40-barrel plant here, so we have plenty of capacity to supply the pubs. “Wetherspoon represents quality and value, fitting neatly our criteria for our high-volume session beers. I think it’s good, too, that it’s stepped into craft beers, giving the average punter an opportunity to try something different.”

Evolved “We’ve evolved the beers into diverse styles over time, and have done a lot of collaboration brews with other brewers. I’m constantly looking for new ideas.”

We’ve always worked with Wetherspoon – and that’s been important

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COMMUNITY R O C H DA L E

LIFE-SAVING GADGET PUTS MOON ON MAP

When The Regal Moon reopened, following refurbishment after flooding, a life-saving machine was installed at the premises.

The pub in Rochdale, a central focal point of the town, now has an automated external defibrillator (AED) on the front of the building. AEDs are portable life-saving devices which anyone can use to help someone in cardiac arrest. A cardiac arrest occurs when the heart ceases beating in a normal rhythm and either stops beating completely or beats in an abnormal, ineffective rhythm which causes the blood to stop circulating around the body. This causes immediate collapse and the person stops breathing. The only treatment for cardiac arrest is defibrillation – and AEDs, if used as early as possible, provide the best chance of survival. For every minute which the heart goes without defibrillation, the chances of survival are reduced by 10 per cent. AEDs in the community, such as the one installed outside The Regal Moon, allow members of the public to access a defibrillator when needed and use it to help the patient. You do not require training to use an AED, as the defibrillator will talk you through everything you need to do. You just need to call 999 and the call-taker will tell you the code needed to access the AED, if it is required. Sara Harris, Community Resuscitation Manager at North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust said: “When community publicaccess defibrillators, like the new one at The Regal Moon, are installed, they provide such a vital life-saving resource. “This defibrillator is now available to help the public to save lives and improve the health and well-being of the people of Rochdale. “Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is the biggest killer in the country. We look forward to continuing our work in conjunction with Wetherspoon to improve the survival rate in the region.”

M U SW E L L H I L L

Pub manager Chris Riley, pictured second left with Rochdale Mayoress and Mayor Councillors Cecile and Surinder Biant, together with Mark Foxley from Rochdale Town Centre Management, said: “We do as much as we can for the community and are more than happy to have this life-saving equipment installed at the pub. “It all started with a charity comedy night, organised by Richard Attwood from Mecca Bingo, and the funds raised were then matched by the Town Centre Pubwatch members in order to pay for the equipment.”

l More information is available at the CardiacSmart website: www.cardiacsmart.nwas.nhs.uk

DYNAMIC DUO DOING SWELL AT MOSSY WELL

Part-time floor associate Krystyna Negus has been working at The Mossy Well since it first opened in October 2015, while her colleague and fellow floor associate Obi Ojike joined the team a month later.

The pair work front of house, at the pub in Muswell Hill, and are responsible for clearing and keeping the tables clean and tidy. Krystyna and Obi both have learning disabilities and are supported by north London-based charity Action For Kids. Pub manager Genevieve Gardiner was approached by the charity for help in finding work for adults with disabilities. Krystyna and Obi now work part time at the pub. Action For Kids exists to support disabled children and young people to live the life they want – just like everyone else. It offers full-time job coaches who organise training, work placements and finally paid work. Genevieve said: “It is a fantastic community initiative and one with which I was more than happy to get involved. “Krystyna and Obi were both helped with their training by my shift manager Shannon Lechnar, and continue with their progress via web-based online training at home. “They are both very disciplined, extremely reliable and hardworking, and are valued members of our team at The Mossy Well.” Fareeda Southworth, volunteer manager/job coach at Action For Kids, said: “We are delighted that Wetherspoon has given two of our young people a fantastic opportunity of paid jobs.” 80 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

NEWS

HISTORIC TRACK COMES BACK TO MERSEYSIDE

When customer George Collinson read with interest about The North Western, in the last issue of Wetherspoon News (spring 2016), it prompted him into a generous gesture. Retired British Gas worker George, from Moreton on the Wirral, is a Wetherspoon fan. A regular at his local The Mockbeggar Hall, he also visits our pubs across the UK – during caravan holidays with his wife Joan. Our design feature, about the £2-million transformation of The North Western, at Liverpool Lime Street Station, was of particular interest to him. Before his retirement in 1995, delivery driver George was working with his British Gas colleagues at Unilever in Bebington, laying a gas main, when they uncovered part of the old Storeton tram line. The 1838 tramway, which linked the Storeton Hill quarries with the River Mersey, was built from track originally used on George Stephenson’s first commercial railway from Liverpool to Manchester. George (pictured with shift manager Tracey Copeland) says: “When Stephenson’s trains became bigger and more powerful, the original tracks could no longer support them. He apparently struck a deal to exchange quarry stone for old rail track, which they were able to use.

FROM CLECKHEATON TO CAKE EATEN AS GEOFF CELEBRATES

“That is how the old track came to be at Storeton, where we found it, along with the original sandstone sleeper blocks. “The conservation guys came and looked at it, giving us permission to cut some out and, at the time, I asked whether I could keep a small piece as a memento. “When I saw the photos of the railway theme at The North Western, I wanted to donate it for display there, because of the Liverpool-toManchester railway connection. “I thought it was like going back home for it.”

ARCHBISHOP OFFERS PRAYERS FOR BEREAVED AT THE BELLE

Pub manager Kelly Smith is pictured with The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, at her pub The Belle and Lion, in Sheerness. The archbishop’s visit, as part of Holy Week, was to talk to members of the Sheppey Bereavement Friendship Group, as well as local funeral directors. The Sheppey Bereavement Friendship Group aims to support all those who have been bereaved, regardless of how much time has elapsed, as well as those who are caring for someone with a terminal illness. Staff at The Obediah Brooke showed their appreciation for a regular customer with a special birthday party. Acting pub manager Chris Graham and the team at the pub in Cleckheaton decorated the pub in celebration of local man Geoff Asquith’s 80th birthday. Geoff is pictured with shift leader Ashley Beaumont. They provided a full buffet for Geoff, his friends, fellow regulars and staff, together with a birthday cake decorated with a picture of the birthday boy himself! Chris said: “Geoff has been a regular at the pub since it opened in 2001 and recently helped us to celebrate our 15th birthday. It was our turn to mark his special day and show him how much we really care about him. “We look forward to many more birthday celebrations for the pub and Geoff.”

The archbishop spoke about his own experiences of loss, both personally and as a member of the clergy, along with his hope that local churches could provide more support to those who had suffered a personal loss. He made time to offer words of comfort to individuals who attended and acknowledge the need to build trusting relationships among the church, funeral directors and the bereaved. Rev Paul Kite, assistant curate for West Sheppey, said: “As a new group seeking to support those suffering loss and to build relationships with local funeral directors, this was a great opportunity to show that the church (both locally and nationally) really does care. “We would also like to thank Kelly and her staff for their superb hospitality in hosting us for this meeting.” Kelly, who runs the pub with her husband, Chris, said: “We were thrilled to welcome The Archbishop of Canterbury to the pub and help to host the community event.” www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 81

IF YOU’RE GOING AWAY, WE’LL BE THERE TOO

The Windmill, Stansted Airport

Our pubs offer a warm welcome for travellers, whether you’re carried by plane, train or automobile

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lanning that great summer get-away, either at home or abroad? Your local Wetherspoon offers a warm holiday welcome at airports and railway stations, across England and Scotland – and even at the motorway services.

Stunning At Leeds City Station, Wetherspoons is located on the North Concourse, while, in Liverpool, the stunning pub The North Western is situated in an iconic landmark building at Liverpool Lime Street Station.

Our conveniently located pubs, at numerous transport hubs, provide the usual great choice and value food and drink options, from breakfast until late.

North of the border, in Glasgow, Camperdown Place is conveniently located at the front of Queen Street Station, while, in Edinburgh, The Booking Office, on Waverley Bridge, is perfectly placed for Waverley Station (opens 14 June).

As well as many of your Wetherspoon classics, at our airport sites, you can even try some exclusive food and drinks which you won’t find in your local. If the train is your selected mode of transport, why not pop in for refreshment at one of three London mainline stations: Wetherspoons at Victoria Station, Hamilton Hall at Liverpool Street Station or The Sir John Hawkshaw at Cannon Street Station.

The Hope & Champion, Beaconsfield

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Most of these pubs have live departure boards, so you can relax, enjoy a drink and a bite to eat, while keeping updated on your travels. Wetherspoon opened its first airport pubs in 1992, at Heathrow Terminal 4, and now has 16 sites at nine airports across England and Scotland, from Gatwick to Aberdeen, with some even enjoying a view of the runway.

Hamilton Hall, Liverpool Street Station

OUT & ABOUT

Wetherspoon, Birmingham Airport

Airports For passengers flying from three airports in southeast England, there are eight pubs to choose from. The three at Heathrow are The Flying Chariot (T2 before security), The Crown Rivers (T5 after security) and Wetherspoon Express (T5 B gates after security). In the North Terminal at Gatwick, you can visit The Red Lion (after security), while in the South Terminal, The Beehive is situated before security and The Flying Horse after security. There are two pubs after security at Stansted Airport: The Windmill and Wetherspoon Express. The airports in Birmingham, Doncaster and Liverpool each boast a Wetherspoon pub. Wetherspoon is after security at Birmingham International Airport terminal 1, The Running Horse can be found after security at Robin Hood Airport and Wetherspoon Express is also located after security at Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Edinburgh and Glasgow airports both offer two pubs each, one before and one after security. The Turnhouse (before) and The Sir Walter Scott (after) at Edinburgh, with The Sandpiper (before) and

The Sanderling (after) in Glasgow. Furthest north, The Granite City is located before security at Aberdeen Airport. The pub features a beer garden. Welcome Wetherspoon was the first pub company to launch an outlet at a motorway services area, when The Hope & Champion opened in January 2014. The pub, at the Extra Motorway Service Area, located adjacent to junction 2 of the M40 motorway, is open from 6am until 11pm (Sunday to Thursday) and until midnight Friday and Saturday. You can still enjoy your favourite club nights too, served with a non-alcoholic drink included in the price. Whether you are flying away, letting the train take the strain or embarking on an epic road trip, there is always a friendly welcome waiting for you. So, if you are out and about this summer, solo or with the family, enjoy your Wetherspoon favourites, as part of your holiday travel plans.

The North Western, Liverpool Lime Street Station

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COMMUNITY SOUTHAMPTON AND FAVERSHAM

PUB CHIEFS GO BACK TO SCHOOL Two Wetherspoon pub managers were among business leaders from across the south who went back to school to inspire youngsters.

Chris Hescott, who runs The Standing Order (Southampton) and Becky Tong from The Leading Light (Faversham) helped out at a ‘girls’ week’, as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. The initiative at Cantell School, in Southampton, saw students from all years taking part in the week-long programme, based around equality and gender issues, as well as powerful and positive female role models. Chris and Becky were on hand at a unique day of employability and job skills for year-10 girls, taking part in mock job interviews and helping with interview technique and CV-writing. Becky said: “It was a long day and quite exhausting, interviewing around 16 young people. However, it worked very well and we got some great feedback. “It was a real eye-opener for me and obvious that they had never had an opportunity to try these skills before, but that was the whole point of the initiative: to give them an idea of what to expect. It is better to practice with us before an interview for college or work. “It was a worthwhile exercise for everyone – and I am more than happy to help again next year.” Becky’s sister, Rhiannon Jones, is the girls’ provision lead at Cantell, as well as the drama and music teacher. She runs various events for the girls, including a breakfast club, to help to improve self-esteem and build a sense of community which was praised in parliament by Schools Minister Nick Gibb MP.

RUISLIP MANOR

Head teacher Ruth Evans, Rhiannon Jones and Chris Hescott (pictured left to right) with pupils from Cantell School

Rhiannon, who was also previously a Wetherspoon employee, during her time at university, said: “At Cantell, we want to ensure that the female students in our care have the necessary life skills and confidence to make the most of every opportunity. “These activities for our year-10 girls were centred around employability and careers, with workshops and lectures looking at interviews, CVs, professional makeup and clothing, confidence, resilience and assertiveness. “After fantastic feedback from students, we look forward to running the event again next year.”

A FOND FAREWELL TO GIL, LORD OF RUISLIP MANOR

One of Wetherspoon’s longest-serving pub managers, Gil Cooray, has retired, after more than 25 years’ service with the company… at the same pub. When Gil joined Wetherspoon to manage the newly opened J.J. Moon’s, in Ruislip Manor, in November 1990, then one of just 17 outlets in London, he had previously clocked up a decade at Fuller’s Brewery. The now chief executive, John Hutson, was Gil’s area manager, more than a quarter of a century ago, while his shift manager, Su Beacham (now Cacioppo), later became the company’s personnel and legal director and was appointed to the board in 2008. During Gil’s time at J.J. Moon’s, all three of his sons have worked alongside him at some stage. Eldest son Anthony spent nine years with the company, becoming a pub manager, while Matthew and Steven both worked in various roles.

In 2013, Gil received a ‘special award’, from his local West Middlesex CAMRA branch members – ‘in recognition of your consistent promotion and championing of the cause of real ale’.

Gil, pictured (left to right) with duty manager Marco Bollella and Anthony Cooray, said: “For me, the job has been all about the people. I have enjoyed being involved in the day-to-day community aspect of the pub and truly appreciate the support and friendship of my regular customers over the years. “There are around 40 of them who were there on the opening day and who still drink regularly at the pub. Their loyalty is a great testament to Wetherspoon and the staff at J.J. Moon’s – long may it continue.” Chairman Tim Martin said: “Gil has been a loyal servant to Wetherspoon and a brilliant licensee, much loved by his customers at J.J. Moon’s. We all wish him well for a long and happy retirement.”

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TREDEGAR

OLYMPIAN EFFORTS HELP DEMENTIA SUFFERERS

Staff at The Olympia are helping vulnerable members of their community, thanks to their involvement in a local council-supported scheme.

Pub manager Rachel Stanley and members of her team at the pub in Tredegar are Dementia Friends Champions. The pub offers help and support for those living with dementia in the Welsh town, with members of staff trained as part of the Alzheimer’s Society’s initiative. They are part of 10,500+ volunteer Dementia Friends Champions, creating dementia-friendly communities together and making a positive difference. Rachel said: “As a team, we just ensure that we are watching out for anyone who may need help with direction or service, checking that they are OK understanding their environment. “We wear our badges, so that anyone suffering with dementia knows to approach us – and we also display a logo on our door to show that we are a Dementia Friends venue. “My grandmother suffers from dementia and I know, at first hand, how difficult everyday living can be and how hard it can be for families to understand the condition. “We also had a case locally where a man, trying to be served in a pub, became confused and wasn’t helped; he became very upset and humiliated as a result. He is now a customer at The Olympia and has told others at his support group about the pub.” That word-of-mouth recommendation has prompted recognition for Rachel and her work.

BISHOP ’S STORTFORD

PORT JACKSON PROVIDES SAFE PORT IN A STORM

Invited by Dementia Friendly, she has received an award for her efforts and was requested to make a presentation speech at the ceremony about the community support which the pub provides. Rachel, pictured with Phil Diamond (left) from Dementia Friendly and Cllr Haydn Trollope, said: “There are now three of us who have completed the training, with a further session booked to train our updated team of managers and staff. “I appreciate the award, but the main thing is to make people aware of the difficulties for those living with dementia and support them in our local communities.”

PETERBOROUGH

FINDING GOD AT THE DRAPER’S ARMS

The Reverend Chris Duffett and his team of chaplains can be found at The Draper’s Arms, in Peterborough, most Friday mornings. The Peterborough city-centre chaplain, together with volunteer chaplains Dave Key, Ian Watkins and Paddy Ryan, is on hand to listen to anyone who wants to put the world to rights or have a moan – providing a friendly, listening ear. The Port Jackson, in Bishop’s Stortford, is the monthly meeting venue for a ‘coffee and chat’ group. Organised by local resident Susan Gayler (left), the informal gathering is for those suffering from epilepsy, together with their family and friends. The group meets every third Wednesday of the month, from noon until 2pm. Susan, 47, who has had epilepsy all her life, saw similar groups in surrounding towns and decided to organise a local meeting, for people like her,

to share their experiences and knowledge about what life is like with the ‘invisible illness’.

Chris has been running ‘Friday Morning at The Draper’s’ since 2013, showing support and encouragement to staff and customers alike. He said: “We’re not here to push God on anyone. We want people to know, by being available to anyone who needs us, that they are loved and cared for.

“Pubs are places of community – and church needs to be where the people are.” She has received support The chaplaincy team offers a free brew (tea or coffee) and hosts a conversation from the Epilepsy Society game (every Friday, 10.15am–12.30pm) called ‘table talk’ to help customers to and hopes that the event develop new friendships. will help to raise awareness and overcome the problems Dave Key, assistant church leader at Open Door Church (in Peterborough), of stigma, as well as provide said: “We are not pushy or preaching the gospel; we just provide a friendly a relaxing and supportive outlet for those who want it. environment. “Customers and staff seem to really appreciate our support and enjoy the Pub manager Joanne Salter opportunity to have a moan, a chat or just share experiences.” (right) said: “We are only Pub manager Christopher Parkes said: “The Friday session has become a too pleased to host Susan’s regular feature of what goes on at The Draper’s Arms and has had a positive monthly meeting and are impact on many of our customers, as well as staff members. so glad that the group feels “We are a community pub – and promoting support and friendship like this is welcome and comfortable an important aspect of our community.” at The Port Jackson.” Paddy, Dave and Ian are pictured (left to right) with bar associate Mel Elson.

www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 85

COASTAL CIDER PUBS

SHORE THING: WAVE HELLO TO WAVES FROM HOST OF COASTS Coastal pubs in Wales, England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are ready to shine this summer

I

f you are planning day trips to the coast this summer, Wetherspoon pubs offer excellent and affordable food and drink options for all the family.

All conveniently located in many bustling coastal towns and many within walking distance of the beach, our pubs offer the usual warm Wetherspoon welcome when you are out and about. So, if you want to be beside the seaside this holiday, whether in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, a local Wetherspoon pub is never too far away.

THE CENTRAL BAR ● ● 13–15 HIGH STREET, CARRICKFERGUS, COUNT Y ANTRIM, BT38 7AN As its name suggests, this pub is in the centre of town and by the waterfront in Carrickfergus. The town sits on the northern shore of Belfast Lough, between the ports of Larne and Belfast, and is the gateway to the beautiful Causeway coast and glens.

THE VELVET COASTER ● ● 501–507 PROMENADE , BLACKPOOL , LANCASHIRE , FY4 1BA Located on the promenade, near the famous Blackpool Tower and across the road to the beach, this large, award-winning pub, with balcony terrace, is an ideal watering hole on a day trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach – Britain’s ‘most visited tourist attraction’.

86 > WETHERSPOON > summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

COASTAL PUBS THE MOUNT STUART ● ● LANDSEA HOUSE , STUART PLACE , CARDIFF, CF10 5BU The long-time offices of Mount Stuart Dry Docks Ltd, the building is now part of the old dockland area which has been redeveloped as Mermaid Quay. The pub, on two floors, has a first-floor non-smoking roof terrace with spectacular views of Cardiff Bay.

THE SALTOUN INN

● ● SALTOUN SQUARE , FRASERBURGH,

THE FORTY FOOT ● ● THE PAVILION CENTRE , MARINE ROAD,

ABERDEENSHIRE , AB43 9DA

DÚN LAOGHAIRE , DUBLIN

This grade B listed property, originally built in 1801, is now a pub and

Enjoy a drink and take in the wonderful sea view from the balcony terrace

11-bedroom hotel, set on four floors, with one ground-floor bar, as well

at this pub, overlooking the harbour and marina (pictured above). It is named

as beer garden. From this ideal base, discover the endless golden

after the famous ‘Forty Foot’ bathing inlet, located under a mile along the

sandy beaches along this magnificent Scottish coastline.

rock-strewn coast at Sandycove.

www.jdwetherspoon.com < summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 87

PUB NEWS REGAL REOPENING AS TIDE TURNS FOR FLOOD-HIT PUB

SAINTLY PATRONS TACKLE GEORGE AND THE FLAGON Wetherspoon’s pubs across England celebrated the country’s national day with an exclusive guest ale for the occasion.

St George’s Day (23 April) was toasted by our customers with a pint of ‘George and the Flagon’, brewed by Greene King, to celebrate England’s patron saint. The pubs, many decked out in St George’s Cross bunting and balloons, were also serving traditional freshly battered fish and chips, with peas, as well as British beef & Doom Bar ale pie.

The Regal Moon, in Rochdale, has reopened following a £580,000 refurbishment project. The pub was forced to close in December 2015 following flood damage. The Wetherspoon outlet, which first opened in November 1997, has been partially redecorated, with new furniture installed throughout. New flooring has also been installed throughout the pub, with a new tiled bar walk and new carpet. The toilet facilities have also been fully refurbished. The mannequin organist, who still sits above the bar and depicts the man who once played the organ when the building was a picture house, has also had a makeover.

Shift leader Adam Westhead is pictured with floor associate Alisha Sargent (left) and bar associate Jenny Gardiner at The Edwin Waugh, Heywood

Pub manager Christopher Riley (pictured with Rochdale Mayoress and Mayor Councillors Cecile and Surinder Biant) said: “Many premises in Rochdale were badly damaged by the floods, including The Regal Moon. “We are delighted to be open once again to welcome customers back to the pub.”

Shift manager Paul Canham, team leader Cassie Roberts, bar associates Jennifer Cooper and Lauren Yates and pub manager Katherine Prince (pictured left to right) at The Gatehouse, Lichfield

SPREAD EAGLE GIVES WING TO WEIRD ALES

Theresa Derwin, editor-in-chief, launched her latest publication at her ‘office away from home’ – The Spread Eagle. The local writer is a regular customer at the pub in Acock’s Green, near Birmingham.

Weird Ales, the first anthology by publishers Quantum Corsets, was ‘born’ at the pub and was, therefore, the apt venue for the launch of the dark fantasy/horror fiction book. Theresa was joined by authors Steve Cotterill, Stephanie Ellis, Pauline E Dungate, Kevin Redfern and Hayley Orgill. Theresa said: “I have been going to The Spread Eagle for the past four years – and it is now my office away from home. I do a lot of work and writing there and have business meetings, as well as monthly gatherings with writers, artists and creative types, to share ideas. “It was at one such session that a friend mentioned an American fantasy and horror fiction pulp magazine, first published in the 1920s, called Weird Tales. It was then that a light bulb went off for me!” Weird Ales is a delightful tome of beer and pub-flavoured stories, in which you will find a wicked brew of eleven glorious tales, guaranteed to make you shudder. 88 > WETHERSPOON > SUMMER 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Editor Theresa Derwin, with authors Stephanie Ellis, Lynn M Cochrane, Matthew Cash, Andy J Walker and Pauline E Dungate (left to right)

From a low-Calorie lager, which might be one beer too many, to a tentacled tavern of terrifying tipples, in round-after-round of weird and wonderful fiction. Theresa said: “Jayne and her team at The Spread Eagle are lovely and friendly, the drinks reasonably priced and you can also get decent food, at a decent price. It is my second home.” l Weird Ales is published by Quantum Corsets, priced £9.99.

COMPETITION NEWS

WIN £30

4 X £30 PRIZES TO BE WON

OF WETHERSPOON VOUCHERS The first four correctly completed crosswords to be pulled out of the hat will win those entrants Wetherspoon vouchers worth £30. Closing date for entries: 22 August 2016

Post to:

WETHERSPOON NEWS MAGAZINE COMPETITIONS, PO BOX 2330, WATFORD, WD18 1NW

Across

1. Another name for the cormorant, especially the green cormorant (4) 3. ‘Flying —-’, steam engine built in 1923 for LNER (8) 9. European republic whose currency is the lek (7) 10. Miss Doolittle, character in Shaw’s Pygmalion (5) 11. 1988 Grand National-winning horse (5,1,6) 13. Printed, patterned cotton fabric with a glazed finish (6) 15. 1979 disaster movie with Sean Connery featuring an asteroid speeding towards earth (6)

17. Northern Ireland footballer who was Southampton manager from 1985-91 (5,7) 20. African mammal of the giraffe family, Okapia johnstoni (5) 21. City in the Czech Republic near the junction of the Oder and Ostravice rivers (7) 22. The SI unit of mass (8) 23. American university at New Haven, Connecticut (4)

Down 1. Plant with divided leaves which is the national emblem of Ireland (8) 2. Dublin theatre opened in 1904 (5) 4. Miss Bloom, actress who appeared in the film Limelight (6) 5. 1948 crime film set in New York which got a Best Motion Picture Story nomination (3,5,4) 6. Former Portuguese gold coin (7)

7. Either of the two tides that occur at the first or last quarter of the moon (4) 8 & 12 Dn. Joe Orton play of 1964 (12,2,6) 12. See 8 Down. 14.Narrator of the novel Moby Dick (7) 16. African republic whose capital is Luanda (6) 18. Scarlett, heroine of Gone with the Wind (5) 19. North Yorkshire cathedral city on the River Ouse (4)

SOLUTIONS (Spring 2016 issue) Across: 6 Michael; 7 Caine; 9 Segal; 10 Boyhood; 12 Memento Mori; 14 Bakersfield; 18 Calcium; 19 Agate; 21 Maori; 22 Venture. Down: 1 Niger; 2 Thrace; 3 Yen; 4 Fathom; 5 Andorra; 8 Tootsie; 11 Celsius; 13 Caravan; 15 Euchre; 16 Legato; 17 Stork; 20 Zen.

hotels

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Terms and conditions: The crossword is open to all UK residents over the age of 18, excluding employees of the promoter, their respective families and agents or anyone directly connected with this competition. Acceptance of the rules is a condition of entry. No purchase necessary. Entries must be received no later than 22/8/16. Proof of dispatch is not proof of receipt. The winners will be the first correctly answered entries drawn. Where multiple prizes are offered, the winners will be the first relevant number of correct entries drawn. The judge’s decision is final; no correspondence will be entered into. One entry per household. The winners will be notified by post. No cash alternative available. The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend this promotion, owing to events arising beyond its control. The promoter is not responsible for any third-party acts or omissions. Promoter: J D Wetherspoon plc, Wetherspoon House, Central Park, Reeds Crescent, Watford, WD24 4QL From time to time, J D Wetherspoon may wish to contact you about product offers. If you do not wish to receive relevant offers from J D Wetherspoon, please tick here. o If you supply your e-mail address, please tick here, if you do wish to receive relevant offers from J D Wetherspoon or its drinks suppliers via e-mail. o

www.jdwetherspoon.com < Summer 2016 < WETHERSPOON < 89

BAR TALK

Cheers

Tim Page is chief executive of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale

BATTLE FOR REAL ALE HAS BEEN WON, BUT WAR IS JUST BEGINNING CAMRA has achieved much in its first 50 years, but, with your input, we can shape the next 50 too The Campaign for Real Ale needs you! Yes, you: sitting enjoying a pint in your local Wetherspoon. You have just the expertise and insight we need.

Most recently, Wetherspoon has brought another beer revolution to the mainstream, with the arrival of flavoursome and interesting craft beers on chilled taps and in cans.

It’s been almost 50 years since four friends took a holiday to Ireland and came back having founded what would become the Campaign for Real Ale.

It showed that craft beer was not a niche metropolitan fad, but a product meeting customers’ demand for quality, flavour and choice – which no one could afford to ignore… and that includes CAMRA.

But times have changed. A quick look around the pub where you’re reading this tells you that. The beer in your glass shows how far the pub industry has come.

CHOICE

When CAMRA was founded, just a handful of national brewers churned out almost identical beer, in a way which made them the most money, rather than with any great concern for what made us customers happy. Now, the beer landscape has changed hugely. Look at the line of real ale hand-pumps you can choose from in this pub.

Your opinion matters to us –  and we care about what you think

Consider the even wider choice offered by the keg beer taps, often from exciting new British or foreign brewers. Where once only real ale served from casks could bring drinkers something more interesting than one-dimensional lager, innovation and excitement are no longer driven by how the beer is dispensed. Good, high-quality beer is now available to everyone – and you may not care about how it is served or the container it comes from – just that you enjoy it. Where Wetherspoon leads, many follow. Wetherspoon is often credited for the survival of real ale in the UK, for bringing it back to high-street pubs at a time when it was considered unfashionable and unprofitable.

GROW

We’ve struggled with the craft beer debate for years. We’ve argued about the benefits of cask-conditioned beer over kegs, but have been told that the war for real ale has been won and we’re no longer relevant. And yet we continue to grow – 178,000 members at the last count – because we’re recognised as the only organisation which campaigns in the interest of all beer-drinkers and pub-goers. Like Wetherspoon, we can survive and remain relevant only if we listen to what our customers want.

90 > WETHERSPOON > Summer 2016 > www.jdwetherspoon.com

Our potential customers are you – those who drink in pubs and enjoy beer and cider. You tell companies like Wetherspoon how your tastes have changed, what’s interesting you, the things you find exciting, what you want to taste in your glass and what you expect as a customer. So, we need you to tell us what CAMRA should be doing. How can we best represent you: the beer- and cider-drinker, the pub-user, the person who enjoys drinking with friends, rather than at home in front of the TV? Has the battle for real ale been won? Do we still need to fight for that one particular style of beer or should CAMRA be championing all good beer, whether it comes out of a cask, a keg or a can?

OPINION

What happens if the Campaign for Real Ale no longer campaigns on behalf of drinkers of real ale, cider or perry? Does it matter and do you care? Your opinion matters to us – and we care about what you think. The next couple of years could see a change in what CAMRA does and how it supports drinkers and the pubs where they drink. We’ll be organising almost 50 consultation events across the UK in the next six months, so there’s bound to be one near you. Check out the website [camra.org.uk/ revitalisation] for details about how you can get involved or to complete an online survey, if you can’t make a consultation event. Join CAMRA now, if you’ve not already done so, so that you can have your say.

l www.camra.org.uk

CRAFT BEERS & CIDERS 50 0 ml b

CANS SIXPOINT BENGALI

6.5% ABV 355ml

BOTTLED CIDERS

SIXPOINT THE CRISP

5.4% ABV 355ml

CRAFTY DAN 13 GUNS AMERICAN IPA

ORCHARD PIG REVELLER 4.5% ABV 500ml

HAZY HOG CLOUDY ENGLISH CIDER 5.5% ABV 500ml

LAGUNITAS IPA

HOGSTAR ENGLISH LAGER

BROOKLYN LAGER

MEANTIME LONDON LAGER

BREWDOG PUNK IPA

4.5% ABV 330ml

DRAUGHT BEERS

SHIPYARD AMERICAN PALE ALE www.jdwetherspoon.com

HOPPING HOG IPA 5.4% ABV 330ml

5.0% ABV 500ml

5.5% ABV 330ml

4.5% ABV pint

BOTTLED BEERS

ANGRY ORCHARD ASPALL SUFFOLK CYDER 5.0% ABV 500ml

DEVILS BACKBONE AMERICAN IPA

ottle

4.5% ABV 330ml

6.2% ABV 355ml

5.2% ABV 355ml

5.6% ABV 330ml

5.2% ABV pint

Pub-Finder

Wetherspoon News

Subject to local licensing restrictions and availability at participating free houses. Photography is for guidance only. J D Wetherspoon PLC reserves the right to withdraw/change offers (without notice), at any time. See main menu for additional details of our terms and conditions.

AWARD-WINNING CIDERS FEATURING UP TO 30 CIDERS A SELECTION OF PERRIES

CRAFT

FEATURING INCLUDING

Subject to local licensing restrictions and availability at participating free houses. J D Wetherspoon PLC reserves the right to withdraw/change offers (without notice), at any time. See main menu for additional details of our terms and conditions. *Cider festival price applies to the festival ciders only, the full list of which can be seen in the tasting notes.

WNEWSSUM16

RARE AND UNUSUAL FLAVOURS ,