The latest stories from Arkell's Pubs

Arkell's TV - watch videos

Rose & Crown’s new landlords bring home the bacon

Less than 24 hours after taking over the tenancy of The Rose & Crown at Lea near Malmesbury, Mark Green and Sarah Smith found themselves providing breakfast for 44 members of the church, next door to the pub.

Less than 24 hours after taking over the tenancy of The Rose & Crown at Lea near Malmesbury, Mark Green and Sarah Smith found themselves providing breakfast for 44 members of the church, next door to the pub.

However, it was a welcome introduction to village life for the couple who have two pre-school children. 'The first thing we unpacked was packets of bacon – almost before the children's suitcases,” said Sarah.

Mark and Sarah are experienced publicans – they even met in pub and both sets of parents were publicans themselves. Most recently Mark and Sarah ran The White Hart at Broadoak in the Forest of Dean but decided to bring in a manager to run it after deciding to find a village pub where they can settle down and bring up their family.

'The church breakfast is a regular event, apparently, and it a great way to meet our new neighbours,” said Sarah. 'The pub also hosts a Friday toddler group in the pub skittle alley so I can't wait to meet some of the local mums and dads there too.”

The couple spent months looking for their perfect pub, but fell in love with The Rose & Crown after contacting Arkell's who said that the previous tenants were moving to New Zealand.

'It's got a lovely feel to it, a big pub garden and a little private one for our family too – we love it, even if we've moved in during the depths of winter,” added Mark.

George Arkell, director at Arkell's Brewery, is delighted that such experienced landlords have taken on the pub. 'It's great for the brewery and for the villagers and pub regulars,” he said. 'Mark and Sarah understand the industry inside out and know how to deliver a really good night out.”

Mark is well aware that people have to have a good reason to come out in the current economic climate: 'If you want people to come in, you have to give them a reason to do so. We pay a lot of attention to the quality and value of our food, so we'll have plenty of regular menu choices – but a specials board too, which will really mean special.”

In the meantime, the family are starting to find their way around the area. 'Malmesbury is lovely, and less than five minutes away, so we've enrolled the children in a nursery there twice a week. Hopefully it won't be long before we've built up a new network of friends,” added Sarah.

---

CAMPAIGN TO REDUCE VAT CHARGED IN PUBS RECEIVES £240,000 BOOST FROM FAMILY BREWERS

As the cost of eating out in the UK continues to rise at an alarming rate, having escalated by 7.5 per cent in the last year*, the Independent Family Brewers of Britain is taking action, contributing almost quarter of a million to help fund a campaign designed to reduce the VAT charged in pubs.

Pubs have suffered due to the VAT increase, in January 2011, to 20 per cent, with many consumers opting to stay at home. Orchestrated by Jacques Borel, the campaign seeks to reduce the VAT charged in pubs to stimulate economic growth and employment. Having already achieved success in Germany, Belgium, Sweden and France, where a tax reduction from 19.65 per cent to five led to the creation of 21,700 jobs in the first year alone, the influential French leisure entrepreneur and lobbyist is aiming to influence Government policy before the next general election.

It is estimated that a reduction of VAT to five per cent would create between 140,000 and 320,000 jobs in the UK hospitality sector**; welcome news as youth unemployment hits a 17-year high of one million.

Paul Wells, Chairman of the Family Brewers comments: 'Pubs are beleaguered with tax increases and legislation so this campaign is to kick-start some economic growth. Reducing VAT will give a boost to the pub sector and help employment as pubs get busier; this will particularly help youth unemployment as pubs take on junior help.”

Jacques Borel adds: 'A VAT rate cut is essential for the UK economy; the hospitality industry is ideally placed to help kick-start this because jobs can be created relatively quickly and at relatively low cost.”

Arkell's Brewery Chairman, James Arkell, said: 'As a member of the IFBB, Arkell's is endorsing this initiative which would take some pressure off our incredibly hard-working licensees and help to boost the industry as a whole.”

---

Arkell’s adds to pub estate

Arkell’s is delighted to announce that it has acquired The Fox and Hounds at Haydon Wick in Swindon and The King’s Arms Hotel in Malmesbury, both purchased from Enterprise Inns. The brewery, which paid market price for the pubs, will take over both premises next week.

Brewery chairman, James Arkell, said: 'These new purchases fit our strategy of continual investment in pubs and small town hotels which have a thriving community around them.”
The Fox and Hounds is a lovely country pub that first opened around 1840. No longer in the country, as Swindon's western expansion began surrounding the village some 30 years' ago, The Fox and Hounds retains a rural feel and is well-supported by the local community.
The King's Arms is Arkell's first acquisition in the historic town of Malmesbury. With twelve letting rooms, two bars, a restaurant and a function room for up to 120 people, this pretty hotel offers lovely overnight accommodation and a warm welcome.
According to James: 'The licensed industry changes all the time, and breweries and pub companies must too. We've always known this and adapt our estate of pubs accordingly, that's why we've been in business for over 160 years, just like the majority of fellow family brewers across the country who understand the licensed trade better than anyone. People want more from pubs than just a great pint of beer and someone to chat to – those are essential. Good food is important for every licensed premises and a small country town hotel should be friendly and cosy with room for a good party.”
Over the last six years, Arkell's has made a number of significant investments in pubs and hotels across the region. In 2006 it bought The Bear Hotel in the centre of Wantage, significantly upgrading the bars and accommodation to make The Bear into a thriving town centre hotel.
In 2007 the brewery bought the 16th century 26-bedroom Lansdowne Strand Hotel in Calne, and the following year it purchased the iconic Riverside Inn at Lechlade, next to the most up-stream marina on the Thames and where, earlier this year, David Walliams began his incredible Thames charity swim.
In 2009 the brewery turned its attention back to pubs and bought The Mason's Arms at Meysey Hampton. Earlier this year it bought a closed Oxford pub reopening it as The Rickety Press. The pub, located at Jericho, is once again thriving.
Alongside new investment, the brewery continually invests in its estate of pubs, with this year investing a six-figure sum in The Bull Hotel, Fairford, which the brewery has owned since 1973.

---

Cask Marque success for Arkell’s Landlords

Nearly half of Arkell’s Brewery landlords have won Cask Marque accreditation for serving the perfect pint of cask-conditioned ale. And this week the brewery is celebrating with three more landlords: Dave Howells at The Boundary House and Pete and Bev Neal at The Moonrakers, both in Swindon and Terry Sullivan at The Punchbowl, Woodstock near Oxford who have also achieved Cask Marque status.

Backed by 45 of the country's leading brewers and pub companies, Cask Marque accreditation is only awarded to licensees whose ale passes a series of rigorous independent beer quality audits.

Since its foundation in 1997, Cask Marque has inspected around 135,000 pints of beer and accredited over 6,000 of the country's 36,500 pubs estimated to serve one or more cask conditioned ales.

Cask Marque director, Paul Nunny, said: 'Arkell's should feel justifiably proud of this excellent achievement, which not only recognises the commitment the brewery has made to serving the perfect pint but also acts as an independent guarantee of quality for customers.

'All too often, publicans don't appreciate the care and attention cask beers require and then run the risk of losing custom by serving pints that are below par.”

Alex Arkell, Brewer at Wiltshire family brewery, Arkell's, said: 'I started my working life at the sharp end: Running a pub where I was behind the bar every day. It was there I learned the importance of having delicious-tasting, consistent beer – because if we didn't deliver the perfect pint, we'd be on the receiving end of direct criticism – especially me as the son, grand-son and great-grand-son of brewers!

'Good beer starts in the brewery, and finishes as it's pulled through the lines and into a beer glass. At the brewery it's our responsibility to ensure our beer leaves the brewery in absolutely top condition. Then the responsibility is passed to our landlords who look after the beer properly from barrel to glass. When I began working in the brewery last year I felt that the best sign of beer quality in a pub was the Cask Marque sign which appears outside pubs guaranteeing that inside you will get a great pint of cask ale.”

Arkell's is aiming for all its landlords to be Cask Marque accredited.

---

Christmas Greetings for Noel Ale

With the 2011 Christmas season now in full swing, Arkell’s Brewery has delivered its seasonal Noel Ale into pubs across Wiltshire and the South of England.

And this year, for the first time, the beer has been brewed by Alex Arkell, great grandson of the beer's namesake, Sir Noel Arkell, who was born on Christmas day in 1893 and ran the brewery from the 1920s until 1971.

For Alex, who qualified as a brewer earlier this year and is now working at the Wiltshire family brewery in Swindon, it is an honour, but quite a responsibility to be able to carry on the family tradition – especially as, at 26, he's as old as the beer itself.

'I can say with absolute sincerity that I've tasted Noel Ale at Christmas for my entire life,” he said. 'As far as I am concerned, it's the best Christmas beer in the world – but as I've been working alongside our Head Brewer, Don Bracher, in charge of brewing it this year, I also feel a big sense of responsibility to see that it goes out of the brewery in the best condition possible – there's over two decades of Arkell's brewing history riding on my shoulders.”

Noel Ale is, at 5% ABV, a full-bodied beer which is cleverly disguised by its distinctive light colour and slides down very easily, leaving drinkers with a warm, tingling feeling – ideal for celebrations and cold winters.

A pint of Noel Ale will cost around £2.90 in the pubs. Party pins are also available (10 litres Party Pin £32.17, 20 litres Party Pin £61.64). An 8-pack of Noel Ale costs £14.26. And the perfect perfect gift for Christmas? A 3 bottle gift pack at £5.22.

To purchase Noel Ale party pins contact Arkell's Brewery on 01793 823026.

---

Akai is The Bee's Knee's for Brain Tumour Research

On 10 December at The Bingham Hall, Cirencester, 11 year old Akai, the winner of Sky1 series ‘You’ve got to Dance’ and star of ‘Street Dance 3D’ the movie, will perform alongside ‘The Cheeky Boys’ and renowned comedy dance troupe: Bad Habits.

Tickets are £10 per person and there will be a bar and raffle as well as further entertainment from singer Pavo and the Electric Dance Group. Tickets can be purchased from the Bees Knees public house in Watermoor, Cirencester 01285 652112 or call Jo on 07971 628698.

Organised by Bee's Knee's Landlady, Sharon Scrivens the event is to raise money for the Lyndsey Roughton Purple Heart Brain Tumour Fund (SDBTT) in aid of Brain Tumour Research.

Lyndsey Roughton is originally from Cirencester but it is also a cause close to Bad Habits as group member Liz Maw explains. 'Lyndsey is my niece and was diagnosed with a brain tumour in late 2009. Despite some very strong treatment and thinking she was all in the clear the tumour came back a year later.

'She was operated on in early 2011 and has since finished her 6 wk Radiotherapy. We have all heard about brain tumours but it is one of the cancers that get the least amount of funding or certainly not the funding it deserves. 4000 are diagnosed a year with this type of cancer and we want answers.”

The aim of the charity is to raise £10,000 and they are currently at the £1000 mark. Alongside the evening the charity have set up a Facebook auction, which is currently taking place, including prizes like Premiership football tickets, static line parachute jumps, signed Russell Brand merchandise and electronic goods.


Pint-sized History of Arkell's Brewery
At 168 years old, Arkell's Brewery is one of just 28 family breweries left in the UK. The Brewery was established as an offshoot to the family farm when Isambard Kingdom Brunel was building his locomotive and carriage works for the Great Western Railway. Beer from Arkell's helped quench the thirst of workers in the hot, humid environment of the railway works. Whilst Swindon's historic railway works closed in the 1980s, Arkell's is still going strong, fulfilling the demands of today's workers.
Three generations of Arkell's family work at the brewery every day, alongside generations of local families, brewing real ale and overseeing over 100 pubs the brewery owns across Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire. Arkell's continuously invests in its pubs and the brewery, recently installing bottling equipment, fermenters, conditioning equipment and a kegging unit to brew Pilsner lager. Full-bodied real ales include 2Bs, 3Bs, Kingsdown and Bees Organic Ale. Specials include Summer Ale, Noel Ale and Moonlight. Moonlight was brewed in secret in 2004 commemorating Chairman Peter Arkell's 80th birthday and his RAF 1943 pilot missions flying low level sorties collecting agents in occupied France under full moon, later in Burma. Peter Arkell passed away in 2010.

www.arkells.com

---

Government decision applauded by Arkell's

Arkells, has applauded the Government for preserving regional brewing through its decision to protect the traditional brewery tied tenancy agreement, praising Consumer Minister Edward Davey for recognising its importance to the longevity of breweries and success of tenant licensees.

Local brewer and Independent Family Brewers of Britain member, Arkells, has applauded the Government for preserving regional brewing through its decision to protect the traditional brewery tied tenancy agreement, praising Consumer Minister Edward Davey for recognising its importance to the longevity of breweries and success of tenant licensees.

The decision has averted a potentially disastrous situation, with brewery closures, the loss of well-known and respected beer brands and pub closures all being predicted had the agreements been abolished. Jobs of local people and suppliers, as well as consumer choice and competition, have also been saved.

In a response to the House of Commons Business, Innovation and Skills Committee's tenth report of session 2010-2012 into pub companies, the Government has recognised that, particularly in the case of the traditional tenancy model, the tie may play an important role in safeguarding the future of Britain's smaller breweries. Acknowledging that the traditional tenancy model not only provides a low cost entry for a licensee wishing to open a pub but also offers a low cost/low risk exit, as neither the freehold nor the lease need to be sold on, the response also recognises that the tied model may be essential to the preservation of small British brewers and local beer, as well as British businesses and jobs.

Speaking after the announcement, James Arkell of Arkells Brewery said: 'The Government has provided a substantial boost in confidence for Family Brewers, and their tenants, by ending the uncertainty surrounding the report's recommendations and explicitly supporting the traditional tenancy model, as well as recognising that the brewery tie is vital for regional brewing.

'As a family owned company, we take a long view of investment into our pub buildings and, within the traditional brewery tenancy agreement, we take the costs of looking after and improving the buildings we own. This is a centuries old business model and allows a strong partnership between licensee and brewer, sharing the ups and downs of trading the pub.

'Thanks to the support the Government has announced for the traditional brewery tenancy agreement and the beer tie, we will now be able to increase investment into our pubs.”

Consumer Minister Edward Davey added: "This is good news for everyone to raise their glass to. It gives the industry more certainty, which is vital to the success of Britain's Family Brewers; and it gives pub-goers the knowledge that they are drinking a fairer pint down their local.”

Notes
A brewery tied tenancy is a short term renewable tenancy agreement, typically for a three to six year term, with a full or partial drinks tie. The cost is low because new tenants only have to purchase the trade inventory when they enter the pub, together with stock at value and a refundable trading deposit. The risk is also low because the member brewery maintains the structure of the pub, decorates and signs the exterior, provides building insurance and maintains fixtures, unlike a lease which are fully repairing and insuring.

The Independent Family Brewers of Britain
The Independent Family Brewers of Britain was founded in 1993 to defend the tie and currently operates around 4,200 pubs in the UK; its members include some of the most respected brewers in Britain. The Family Brewers represent a distinct and unique sector of the UK brewing industry; owning regional breweries and pub estates, with the majority being private, family run businesses. Spanning generations, Family Brewer members' currently employ around 36,000 people across their breweries and pubs.

---

Unique rural pub initiative pays off

Rural village pub The Rose and Crown at Ashbury, near Swindon which had faced an uncertain future, has reported a record week and is now so busy that its bedrooms are regularly booked out and the restaurant is full for Christmas lunch two months in advance.

Rural village pub The Rose and Crown at Ashbury, near Swindon which had faced an uncertain future, has reported a record week and is now so busy that its bedrooms are regularly booked out and the restaurant is full for Christmas lunch two months in advance.

At the beginning of the year, Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery, which has around 20 pubs in rural areas, appointed Richard Turner as its Brewery Community Liaison Manager, the first such appointment in the country, to help build links between rural pubs and their local communities.

At the time the brewery was seeking new landlords for a number of rural pubs and brewery chairman James Arkell decided to work with local communities to ensure the right landlord for their pubs. Richard Turner visited villages where the Arkell's pub represented the only remaining business. One of these was The Rose and Crown at Ashbury where interest in the project was so strong that the pub's local MP, Ed Vaisey, dropped in for a pint to find out more.

Just six week's later Bill and Sandra Downes moved in, Bill says it was the active the support of the village that encouraged them to take over the tenancy of a rural pub, which they might have considered as being too difficult to turn around.
'Rural pubs must have local support to survive and the villagers had set up a pub steering committee to come up with ideas as to how to make the most of their pub,” he said.

Since the couple took over, the pub has seen a big boost in business, which has further encouraged the couple to invest in the pub, along with Arkell's.

The pub's letting rooms have been refurbished, including one which now has a king sized Victorian brass bed, dressing room and double walk-in shower, and the pub's menus have been revamped.

Bill says the pub's letting rooms are now regularly booked out during the week and at weekends. 'We've looked at our rates and my view is that if we don't charge a fortune for our bedrooms, then people will stay and eat in the bar.” It currently costs £50 per night for a double bedroom and at weekends, The Rose and Crown is charging just £65 for a weekend two-night stay including a 3-course Sunday lunch.

'These costs work for us,” said Bill. 'They won't work for everyone, but I'd rather we were busy because it improves the atmosphere of the pub.”

George Arkell at Arkell's Brewery is delighted. 'Working with the villagers of Ashbury reinforced how important pubs are to local communities. Bill and Sandra have done a fantastic job – so much so that they're now attracting celebrities.” Last week Jimmy Doherty from Channel 4's Jimmy Farm stayed the night with his film crew – and Bill made sure he slept the smart new Victorian suite.

---

Lord Lyon wins Community race


It was a close-run race but finally the Arkell’s-owned Lord Lyon pub, named after a famous thoroughbred racehorse, has now won the 2011 West Berkshire CAMRA race to be voted Best Community Pub. This is the fourth time a Best Community pub award has been presented by West Berks CAMRA and the second Arkell’s pub to win it. The Fox and Hounds at Donnington (now renamed as Harry’s Bar and Kitchen) won in 2009.

Customers nominated the Lord Lyon for an impressive 24 distinct reasons, according to West Berkshire CAMRA. Too numerous to list in full, they include: making the pub's garden available to local schools for projects (including ‘meet the chicken' and vegetable gardening); hosting a party for the last night of the Stockcross pantomime; providing a venue for the village's book group, bridge, guitar and knitting clubs; supporting the local cricket and football clubs; aiding charities including the Sutton (village) hall.
Pub landlord Mark Genders said: 'We're very pleased, it's marvelous! It recognises all the team's hard work.' 

Adrian Bean, Chairman of West Berkshire CAMRA, said: 'What impressed me about the pub was the range of local events that were mentioned as happening at the pub or being supported by the pub. The fact that people felt that the pub acted as the hub of the village was also very important.”

In September, The Lord Lyon received a £100,000 boost thanks to Arkell's which completed a total refurbishment of the pub's five letting rooms.

Brewery Director George Arkell, said: 'Despite a tough economy, especially for the licensed trade, The Lord Lyon is trading well so it made sense to invest in the pub and totally refurbishing the old letting rooms back into use by installing new plumbing and heating, and redecorating them throughout. It's a sound investment in this thriving pub and provides another revenue stream for the landlord, Mark Genders. This award by West Berkshire CAMRA is now the icing on the cake.”

---

Ten minutes to top food

Rural pubs have to produce something special for it to be worth a trip out of town but The White Horse at Woolstone, between Swindon and Faringdon, has done just that.

The Arkell's-owned pub has brought in new chef Kai Taylor, who moved to the country pub from his previous role as Executive Chef at the Copthorne Millennium Group of hotels.

The 37-year old chef has designed and opened restaurants in Italy, Japan and even Cardiff, Wales, and was operations manager for the Lava Lounge in Swindon, has opted out of the rat race to concentrate on building up the reputation of The White Horse at Woolstone alongside its landlord Keith Adams.

'It might seem surprising to move away from a big role in a large group to being my own boss in a village pub kitchen, but here I can really develop good food that people not only want to eat, but surprises them as well,” he said.

Kai isn't joking when he says he wants to surprise customers. His scampi and chips may not be quite what people expect from their local take-away or pub. It's whole fried scampi still in its shell, with home-prepared chunky chips.

Other choices off the menu are not so wacky – although they are often presented on rather unusual dishes. 'I don't mind visiting Savernake Forest and picking up beautiful pieces of wood to fashion into plates,” he says. 'It does make eating out a bit more exciting.”

Landlord Keith Adams says that since he took over The White Horse last year, business has picked up, but he is now working to attract customers from Swindon. 'The White Horse at Woolstone is much closer than people in Swindon often think,” he says. 'We're just ten minutes from The Oxford Road roundabout and ½ mile from the famous White Horse Hill.

'I hope that local people will again consider their rural village pub for an evening out. If they agree to drive here, it's up to us to give them a good night out – and I can guarantee that Kai's menus will do just that.”

---

Bryn knows his onions at The Royal

As Wootton Bassett prepares to welcome Princess Anne this weekend, there's a new face at The Royal Inn, Wootton Bassett (formerly The Borough Arms, now known as The Royal in honour of the town's new status). Local fruit and vegetable merchant, Bryn Stew, says it's home from home as he grew up in The Plough at Badbury.

The Royal will also be selling Royal Bassett Ale, first brewed by Arkell's in March when the town's Royal status was announced earlier in the year, along with the other two Arkell's pubs in Wootton Bassett: The Sally Pusey and The Curriers. £10 from each barrel of Royal Bassett Ale will go to SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors and Air Force Association).

Brewery director: George Arkell said: "We're delighted to be able to pay tribute to the townspeople who turned out, rain or shine, to honour fallen servicemen."

Arkell's has a long association with the services. Peter Arkell, who died last year, flew as an RAF pilot behind enemy lines during the Second World War. Brewery Chairman James Arkell is a retired Lieutenant Colonel of The Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, his son George currently serves as an officer in the same regiment. George's brother Captain John Arkell of the Light Dragoon Guards was wounded on his second tour of Afghanistan in 2009 when an explosion hit part of his 30-man patrol in Helmand Province.

James Arkell, who attended a number of repatriation ceremonies, said: "We have all been immensely touched by the respect shown by the townspeople of Wootton Bassett to our servicemen. It is both a deep honour and privilege to pay tribute to the town in the way we know best."

Head brewer, Don Bracher, added: "This is our small tribute to those who quietly but publicly recognised the enormous sacrifice that so many or our armed forces have made."

The Royal Inn's landlord, Bryn Stew, will continue to run his fruit and vegetable supply business, S&R Fruits, alongside the pub. "I know my onions, everyone should have their 'five a day', and then come and wash them down with a pint of real ale from The Royal," he said.

---

£100,000 pub investment bucks trend

The Lord Lyon pub at Stockcross near Newbury has received a £100,000 boost thanks to owners Arkell's Brewery, which has just completed a total refurbishment of the pub's five letting rooms.

The Lord Lyon pub at Stockcross near Newbury has received a £100,000 boost thanks to owners Arkell's Brewery, which has just completed a total refurbishment of the pub's five letting rooms.

Investment in The Lord Lyon goes against the trend many pubs and pub-owners are following to reduce spending on maintenance and improvements in order to cut costs.

However, the Wiltshire Brewery feels this is a shortsighted attitude. Director George Arkell, said: "Despite a tough economy, especially for the licensed trade, The Lord Lyon is trading very well so it made sense to invest in the pub and totally refurbishing the old letting rooms back into use by installing new plumbing and heating, and redecorating them throughout. It's a sound investment in this thriving pub and provides another revenue stream for the landlord, Mark Genders."

The brewery has worked closely with Mark on the project, who has also invested his own money.

Earlier this year West Berks CAMRA voted the Lord Lyon its Community Pub of the Year and Mark received a second Certificate of Excellence from Cask Marque for the quality of his real ale.

"The Lord Lyon is a great pub in a village that supports us and wants the pub to succeed," said Mark, who took over behind the bar less than two years' ago and has been instrumental in its current success. "Arkell's rolling programme of redecoration and refurbishment of the pub has meant that it's in very good shape inside and out."

The pub's new letting rooms are now open.

---

Two golds and a silver for Arkell's Beers

Two golds and a silver for Arkell's Beers

Arkell's Kingsdown and Moonlight both achieved gold awards at this year's Taste of the West awards, with Bee's Organic achieving silver.

Brewery director, George Arkell, is delighted with the result. "The well-established and highly respected Taste of the West Awards are attracting record numbers of entries so we are particularly thrilled at having achieved such a great result this year," he said.

The judges loved the presentation of the three ales submitted, all the bottles and packaging scored full marks.

Of Arkell's Kingsdown, the judges added: "The ale has a fantastic aroma that almost scored full marks. A good appearance with a sweet, malty finish to the taste. Overall a great taste of a classic ale, well worthy of a gold award."

Arkell's Moonlight also came in for particular praise: "The ale has a lovely aroma with good balance. A good appearance with a mostly malt finish to the taste. Overall a fantastic taste."

Arkell's Bee's Organic which has, in previous years, scored gold at these awards, proved it's all down to individual taste by achieving a silver this year. The judges said: "The ale has a lovely, malty aroma with a slight hint of honey; very good in appearance and a nice finish to the taste, a very smooth aftertaste with notes of citrus and honey. The overall taste was very good, though the honey taste could perhaps be enhanced a little more."

George Arkell added: "We put heart and soul into brewing our beers and it is wonderful that professional beer tasters love what we produce."

---

Wroughton bar goes to Swindon Town

Wroughton bar goes to Swindon Town

If they look carefully, former customers of the Three Tuns at Wroughton, who are NOT fans of Swindon Town Football Club, might recognise the bar at the football club's brand new Away bar.

For the brewery has donated the old bar from The Three Tuns, which sadly closed earlier this year, to furnish the football club's Bar 71, which opened a few week's ago for Away fans.

Brewery director Nick Arkell, said: "It seemed a big waste to have such a lovely bar not being used, so as we are sponsors of the football club we asked if it might be useful."

Mark Issac Operations manager, jumped at the chance. "We were planning a new bar for Away fans and this was the ideal contribution from Arkell's."

Swindon Town Football Club's new Away Bar is called Bar 71 as there are 72 clubs in the football league and this is open to every one of them except, of course, town fans who have their own bar.

Since opening, Bar 71 is proving hugely successful, according to Mark. "More than 150 people enjoyed themselves here after the match, and it's also available to hire," he added.

Nick added: "It's always sad when a pub has to close, and luckily for Arkell's this doesn't happen very often, but it's good to see some of the furniture and fittings being put to good use elsewhere."

---

Royal association for new fermenters

Arkell's Brewery has installed two new fermenters, bringing the total investment into new equipment at the Swindon-based brewery to around £1/2 million over the last five years.

And in honour of the country's most famous couple the fermenters have been named 'William' and 'Catherine' by brew-house staff.

The new equipment, which cost £55,000 to install, replaces a large open copper fermenter from the 1930s. Head brewer, Don Bracher, said: "We decided to replace the old equipment earlier this year and as the Royal Wedding was the only topic of conversation at the time, the names stuck."

"More seriously, it's a good investment for us because we can now respond more quickly to the increasing demand for more seasonal and occasional real ales."

Earlier this year Arkell's produced Blue Sapphire for the Royal Wedding as well as Hurricane Ale, for the International Air Tattoo at RAF Fairford and Royal Bassett Ale, celebrating Wootton Bassett's unique contribution to honouring the British Armed Forces.


Real ale is produced by 'top fermenting yeast' at temperatures up to 22°C which produces the rich variety of flavours in an ale. It is this primary fermentation that takes place in the new equipment at Arkell's. After primary fermentation the ale is allowed to mature at 11-13°C in a cask where a slow secondary fermentation occurs.

"The most important outcome for a traditional brewery, such as Arkell's, is to consistently produce top quality real ale," said Alex Arkell, who is working alongside Don. "And that takes continued investment in equipment."

---

David Walliams sets off on 140 mile Thames Swim

7.30am on a chilly September morning and more than 100 paparazzi, TV crews were tucking into bacon sandwiches (supplied by local butcher Andrew Cutler) and coffee at The Riverside Inn at Lechlade.

7.32am and out steps David Walliams, to do interviews and meet the public before setting off on an epic 140-mile swim to London, where he should arrive at Big Ben in eight days.

---

The Carpenter's Arms tops Trip Advisor

The Carpenter's Arms Motel at South Marston has again topped the best business and leisure hotels in Swindon on Trip Advisor, which features reviews and information on hotels, holidays and travel around the world.

The Arkell's-owned motel (there are only two in the brewery's estate of pubs), which has just nine rooms, scored top out of the 35 hotels listed in the Swindon area.

Carpenter's Arms Landlord Bob Feal-Martinez, said: "I didn't know anything about Trip Advisor until last year when one of my regular customers mentioned that we were on there. I visited the website to see what they had said and was delighted with the review. Since then we have had many positive reviews, which has pushed our rating up the site."

Some travel review websites have been criticized recently for publishing glowing reviews on hotels and resorts written by the management themselves. Bob says that while it is possible to do this on Trip Advisor, it's not easy as the website won't accept a review emailed from the IP address of the business being reviewed, and carries out random checks on reviews written.

"We have to rely on our customers to write the reviews when they have left the motel," explains Bob. "It's up to us to make their stay memorable enough for them to remember to do a review when they've returned home."

"The majority of comments we receive seem to mention that our customers like the fact that we are not a corporate hotel but a small number of chalet rooms grouped around a courtyard next to a traditional country pub," added Bob.

Of course, not all reviews are favourable, but Trip Advisor has a method for a destination's management to respond to poor reviews.

"No hotel will always get it right," admits Bob. "However, less favourable comments keep us on our toes. Showing publicly that you accept and want to resolve a problem quickly is very important, and that's what we do."

Arkell's Brewery bought The Carpenter's Arms in 1881, the same year that 'Honest John' Arkell, who founded the brewery in 1843, died and many years before the age of the motorcar. Arkell's Brewery adapted the country pub into a motel in the 2001 due to a rising demand for comfortable and economical overnight accommodation in Swindon during its first boom years. Such was the motel's success that a second phase was added along with landscaped patios.

---

The Bull charges into hotel refurbishment

More than £100,000 has been pumped into the historic Bull Hotel at Fairford by owners Arkell's Brewery and although the brewery thinks that no one may notice when they first walk in, the directors and landlord Mark Dudley don't mind a bit.

"The Bull Hotel dates back to the 17th century and it just wouldn't be right to make this lovely old Cotswold Hotel look modern and shiny inside," says brewery director, George Arkell.

Much of the investment is behind the scenes, with new plumbing, heating and customer toilets. Other investment has opened up the bar areas and redecorated restaurants and 60-seater function room.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "Guests want to be warm and clean - so that's where we've invested most, but the restaurants haven't had a full redecoration for years so we've really gone to town there too."

Such major refurbishment was considered an essential investment to relaunch The Bull Hotel onto the tourist map, after a significant source of revenue to the town of Fairford dried up when more than 1000 Americans left Fairford Airbase last year.

Landlord Mark Dudley said: "The town has been incredibly privileged to have such a large group of people living close by who, for years, made a significant contribution to the local economy. When we heard the news that the airbase was closing it was not only sad to lose the personal relationships we had built up with many of the families living there, but obviously it was going to have a significant impact on local business.

"The investment has made The Bull more attractive not only to our loyal and regular customers from the area, but also to guests from further afield."

The Bull holds fishing rights to a stretch of the River Coln, a major draw to weekenders and anglers.

George Arkell added: "Every business must adapt to changing circumstances and the latest refurbishment will allow Mark and Judy Dudley, who have successfully run the hotel for more than 20 years, to go on doing just that."

Notes on The Bull Hotel.

The Bull hotel dates back to the 17th Century and it was a monastic house, merchant's house and meeting hall before being adapted as a hotel. Until 1910 part of the building served as bank and the entrance to its hidden tunnel, discovered only a few years ago and thought to allow direct access to the church by the monks, is under the chef's office. Arkell's bought the hotel in 1973, and Judy Dudley and her son Mark have run the hotel for over 20 years.

---

The Baker's Arms rises in Badbury

Another village pub is facing a brighter future thanks to Arkell's new Community Liaison Officer, the villagers of Badbury and its new, newly married landlords.

Dave and Becky Preston, who also run The Sun Inn at Coate Water, one of Swindon's busiest family pubs, have taken over behind the bar at The Baker's Arms at Badbury and plan to run them side-by-side.

The newly-married couple, who wed at Christchurch in Swindon only last year, have wasted no time since they moved in and the pub has been repainted and new furniture brought in. They are keen to put down roots in a local community, perhaps start a family and Becky says Badbury seems perfect.

"The Sun Inn at Coate Water is busy and thriving - especially since the new children's play area went in earlier this year," says Becky. "The Baker"s Arms at Badbury is different. It's smaller, in a village with an active and supportive community and running it alongside The Sun gives us the opportunity to build the business up. Thanks to the former landlords, we have a good customer base on which we can build. Perhaps we should call it our 'country retreat', thought it's much more than that."

Richard Turner, Arkell's Community Liaison Manager, appointed by the brewery in March this year, began working with the previous landlords in April when they needed to retire from the pub and find alternative accommodation due to poor health.

"For some long-term landlords who live 'above the shop', it can be difficult to plan for the future," said Richard. "As a family brewery we value our landlords and my job was to help them. As I saw it I had two responsibilities: To the landlords seeking to move on and to the villagers, who wanted to know what was going on."

Badbury villagers didn't need any encouragement to become involved and, having followed the recent story of another Arkell's pub in the media, The Rose & Crown at Ashbury, where locals rose up to support the brewery in finding a new landlord, the residents of Badbury decided to do the same thing.

Badbury villager, Peter Hayman, said: "I've lived in the village for 34 years and worn out three tankards in The Baker's Arms over that time. It has always been a gathering place for the local community. When we heard that new landlords were being sought, we got in touch with Arkell's and pledged our renewed support for the pub and for the new landlords."

He added: "We value the pub as the centre of the village and hope that many of the 300+ other Badbury villagers will take the opportunity return and meet Dave and Becky."

Brewery chairman, James Arkell, is delighted that Dave and Becky are so enthusiastic: "They are just what The Baker's Arms needs," he said. "It's wonderful to have a young couple in there, welcoming back families and children, and great to see the enthusiasm of the Badbury villagers - many of which have already dropped in to say hello to the new landlords.

"The Baker's Arms is definitely rising again."

---

Crackliest Roast Pork ever at Broad Hinton Crown

Landlord and Chef at The Crown at Broad Hinton near Swindon, Oliver Moody, is claiming that his Roast Pork crackling is the crackliest ever.

"It's taken me years to perfect the perfect pork crackling because it's so delicious when it's cooked properly - golden crisp on the outside, meltingly sweet underneath before you plunge into the tenderest of meat itself - and a big disappointment if the joint is soggy right through," he said.

But it's not just crackly roast pork on the menu at this pretty Arkell's country pub. Oliver is a bit of a radical chef as the pub regularly hosts 'Extreme Steak Nights' with massive steak joints. The next such night is being held in October.

Oliver and his partner Anna Brookman are celebrating taking over officially behind the bar at The Crown, having worked tirelessly behind the scenes for the previous landlords, who left last month.

"We know The Crown and its customers well," said Oliver. "Before we were employees, now we have the opportunity to make the pub truly our own."
And the couple intends to do this in style. In what they think will be a first for Swindon, and what they also predict are the 'next big thing' in culinary delights, they will soon be introducing Monkfish Liver and Cod Cheeks onto the menu.

Monkfish liver is a Japanese delicacy - rich and creamy and it has been called 'the foie gras of the sea', cod cheeks (which really are the cheeks of a cod) can be cooked in much the same way as scallops and are also considered a delicacy.

"I love introducing new foods and new ideas onto the menu," says Oliver, "But I know that not everyone wants to try it out so there's plenty of recognisable dishes on the menu for the majority of our customers who would rather know what they are ordering!"

"Perhaps I'm like an extreme sportsman - sometimes I just want to go 'off piste' as they say and do something amazing, and sometimes more customers than we expect come along for the ride. When we started the extreme steak nights we thought to attract just a few but we're having to do more of them as they've proved very popular."

Arkell's Brewery chairman, James Arkell, isn't entirely sure about the monkfish liver or the cod cheeks, but is a big supporter of the extreme pork crackling. "There's nothing better than tender roast pork inside an armour of crackling prepared by a young and enthusiastic team who love what they do - all washed down with a pint of Wiltshire Gold or 3Bs," he says.

So what is the secret of Oliver's crackling? "The meat must be as dry as possible before it"s rubbed all over with salt," he says. "Then put it into a very hot oven - up to 220 degrees and leave it at that heat for the first half of the cooking time, then 'Bob's your uncle'."

---

James goes wild for Charity

On Sunday, 24 July Major General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter, Chief Executive of ABF The Soldiers Charity and Cotswold and Wiltshire brewer James Arkell, who both live near Fairford, will set off on an epic horse ride across Northumberland.

In total six people will ride the ancient Reivers Route, a medieval frontier between England and Scotland and the location for violent battles such as Otterburn in 1388 and Flodden in 1513. Reivers were wild men who ranged around Northumberland and the lowlands: Britain's mediaeval 'Wild West'.

One the way up to the borders the men will stop off at Tim Taylors' brewery and pick up its managing director, Charles Dent, who will join them.

The ride is to raise money for The Soldiers' Charity Current Operations Fund, which supports soldiers and their families who are in need resulting from current operations or any future conflict. The six intrepid riders will visit locations of ancient battles across the English/Scottish borders between the 13th and 17th centuries, culminating at Dunbar where two battles were fought. 
Events are scheduled along the route that will take the team via Callaly, The Cheviots, Coldstream, Kelso,
 Philiphaugh, Galashiels, Thirlestane Castle and 
Haddington.

James Arkell, chairman of Arkell's Brewery in Swindon and proprietor of Donnington Brewery, Stow on the Wold, said: "It will be a tough ride - a mental and physical challenge for us all which we hope will not only raise money for the cause, but raise awareness too. For the Major General and I, it will probably be our last big ride after completing a similar ride, the Tudor Ride, across Wales two years ago.
For more information or to donate contact: 0845 241 4820
www.soldierscharity.org

---

Lyons share of investment in Bed and Breakfast

Arkell's Brewery and landlord Mark Genders are investing over £75,000 in the refurbishment of bedroom accommodation at The Lord Lyon pub at Stockcross near Newbury.

The pub won the West Berkshire Best Community Pub earlier this year and now Mark Genders, who only took over as landlord in 2010, is determined to expand his business by reintroducing overnight accommodation to the same standard as the rest of the pub, which was itself refurbished by owners Arkell's last year.

"The pub used to offer bed and breakfast many years ago, but it's fallen behind the times in terms of facilities and for the last ten years or so the rooms have been used simply for staff accommodation," he said. "With the recent success of the pub Arkell's decided that it's time for significant further investment and I'm delighted."

Director at the Wiltshire brewery, George Arkell, said: "Mark has worked his socks off to encourage local people back into the pub. Initiatives, such as cultivating a vegetable garden, working with the local school and the community and making the pub available for them and others have paid off in the recent CAMRA recognition. Now we are matching his enthusiasm with our investment."

Refurbishment has begun and the new rooms will be available for letting by September.

---

Bumper allotment harvest delivers for pub kitchens

The dry spring weather and wet summer rains might have been bad news for farmers, but for allotment holders at The Exmouth Arms on Cheltenham's Bath Road, it's producing a bumper crop.

And what's good news for the allotment holders is very good news for the pub, because payment for each allotment is a share of their vegetable crop to the pub's kitchen.
However, one allotment holder is finding himself paying a bigger price than the others - because his daughter is the pub-s manageress.
Sarah Capewell said: "The Exmouth Arms allotments were set up three years ago on a disused area behind the pub. Arkell's Brewery, which owns the pub, ploughed and prepared the site and ever since local people have cultivated their patches. Each allotment is around 3 metres square which doesn't sound much but it's amazing how much can be grown on them. My dad, Julian, is a great gardener and he and mum can't possibly eat everything they grow so I say it's much better to pass the excess over to The Exmouth Arms' kitchens."

Julian Capewell harvested 15 courgettes this week - only to find himself handing most of them over to the chef, but he doesn't mind. 'He and mum can come in and eat their own courgettes in a pub meal," said Sarah.

"Most of the vegetables appear on our specials board the evening we're given them and vegetarian customers have an usually large menu to choose from at this time of year - our veg lasagne is a hot favourite,' she added.
George Arkell, at pub owner Arkell's Brewery, praised the pub's initiative: "It's a wonderful use of a derelict piece of land in the middle of Cheltenham - and a great idea to make others do the digging and then be able to eat the fruits (or should I say vegetables) of their hard work!"

---

Wantage hotel 'Bears' all for Loo of the Year

The Bear Hotel at Wantage is planning to enter this year's national "Loo of the Year" awards after its landlady persuaded hotel owner Arkell's Brewery to splash out on expensive new wallpaper in the ladies loos during the hotel's recent refurbishment.

Hotel Landlady Jo Walkley explains: "When the interior designer showed me the wallpaper I fell in love with it - but then we all discovered the cost and common sense took over - almost. I was determined to use the wallpaper somewhere in the hotel, and the ladies loos were the only room we could afford to do it in. It's just a pity that only 50% of our customers will ever appreciate it."

Brewery chairman, James Arkell, doesn't think it's money wasted though. "Lovely loos are essential in pubs and hotels, and our female customers really do appreciate our landlords offering the highest possible standards."

According to tongue-in-cheek report in the Metro Newspaper, loos are the new clubs. A report in the newspaper mentions Kate Moss holding an impromptu party in a Chinese restaurant loo on her 33rd birthday.

More usually, though hotel and pub loos are a great place to have a quick gossip during a night out.

Jo Walkley thinks that, after cleanliness, the most important items in hotel and pub toilets are quantities of loo paper, soap, plenty of mirrors and good lighting to touch up makeup, and whilst her customers might not appreciate the expensive wallpaper, she still thinks that it's all part of good interior decoration that everyone appreciates.

A number of other Arkell's pubs have recently has their loos refurbished and plan to enter the awards. These include: The Saracens' Head, Highworth. The Bull Hotel, Fairford, The Rickety Press, Oxford and The Moonrakers, Swindon.

---

Debt Collector turns the tables

After spending practically every day of the last eight months using The Black Horse at Wanborough as his 'office', Debt Collector Neil Davies had seen enough.

So when he heard that the landlord wanted to head off to Cyprus and coach football he dived right in and took over.

"I was working as a freelance debt collector and was in most days with my laptop. I had seen the pub up close and personal and knew how it worked, who the customers are and why people use it. I knew I wouldn't get another opportunity if I didn't seize it quickly," he said.

Neil has seen his fair share of business disasters over the last four years of debt collecting, but is convinced that a well-run pub will not be one of them. "What people want is a sense of community, good food and good beer. That's what the previous landlords worked so hard to deliver and that's why The Black Horse is increasingly popular. Four years is also quite long enough to be a debt collector, receiving regular black eyes and threats from unhappy debtors."

It's not an entirely unfamiliar industry for Neil, however, who trained as a chef and worked in the industry for a decade before his previous job.

Arkell's Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "I don't think we have had a debt collector as a landlord before, but it strikes me that he's likely to understand more than many the potential pitfalls of running a small business."

Neil added: "I've got big ambitions for the pub, which has over four acres of land. I love beer and I love music. I've started regular jazz evenings and plan on hosting music festivals over the summer. I love people, but there wasn't a lot of opportunity to love them in my last job. There is now."

---

Ashbury and Arkell's celebrate landlord success

A ground-breaking initiative by Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery, launched just six weeks ago, has been hailed a big success after experienced landlords took over at The Rose & Crown at Ashbury, near Swindon.

In March, Arkell's made the news when it appointed the country's first Brewery Community Liaison Manager to help build links between its rural pubs and their local communities. At the time the brewery was seeking new landlords for The Rose and Crown at Ashbury and the villagers were delighted to be given the opportunity to get involved. Interest was so strong that when the pub's local MP, Ed Vaisey, heard about it he dropped in for a pint to find out more.



Last week Bill and Sandra Downes took over. After a 12-year career in The Navy, Bill carved out a successful career running pubs with Sandra in London and Wiltshire, including pubs for Arkell's. Eight years' ago the couple moved to Spain, but Bill became homesick for the English seasons and they contacted Arkell's just last month.



Bill says it was the active the support of the village that encouraged them to take over the tenancy.



"Rural pubs must have local support to survive and the villagers had set up a pub steering committee to come up with ideas to make the most of their pub."



Village Steering Committee chair, Steve Tredwell, said: "Welcoming Bill and Sandra is a big step forward in making the pub the hub of the local community again. We've got lots of ideas and we'll be supporting our local for the long term." Book clubs and business breakfast clubs are some of the ideas under consideration.



George Arkell, directors at Arkell's, is delighted that the brewery's community initiative is proving so successful.



"Working with the villagers of Ashbury reinforced how important pubs are to their local communities, but sometimes it's easy to forget that those same pubs are businesses and need on-going local support. The villagers of Ashbury have been fantastic."



Richard Turner, Arkell's Brewery Community Liaison Manager, is actively working with all Arkell's 21 rural pubs where they are the only remaining business in their community.

---

Cambodian advertisement leads Cotswold man back home

A notice board more than 6,300 miles away has led to a new job for a Gloucestershire traveller.

30 year old Ali Neal was travelling across Cambodia on the final leg of his world tour when he stumbled on the advertisement for a position in his home town of Cirencester. Knowing he was returning to the UK in April he gave The Golden Cross on Black Jack Street a call to enquire about the position as head barman and front of house supervisor.

"I couldn't believe it when I saw it. I was staying at the FCC Hotel in Siam Reap and had only just got off the phone enquiring about another job in Bristol. I thought it was a joke but was familiar with the pub so thought why not!"

The ad had been placed there by a friend of Golden Cross landlord Mark Lindesay after an email conversation in which Mr Lindesay mentioned that his previous barman had left the venue back in March. Mr Lindesay was a travel journalist and writer in Asia during the 1990's and early 2000's.

"I also thought it was a bit of a joke," explained Mr Lindesay "When my friend suggested it I did not think he would go through with it but am pleased he did. Ali has been here for a couple of weeks now and has just settled straight in."

---

Avocado off the menu at The Bull, Fairford

It was THE colour of the 1970s and 80s, but avocado is definitely off the menu at The Bull at Fairford, currently undergoing a major refurbishment.

As the last hotel bathroom avocado-coloured suite is replaced with white fixtures and fittings, hotel-owners Arkell's Brewery has started on the bars and restaurant.

Most of the investment is 'behind the scenes', however, with new plumbing, heating and customer toilets - although the secret tunnel from the hotel to Fairford's 500-year-old St Mary's Church isn't being refurbished.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "Guests want to be warm and clean - so that's where we're investing most - although it's a shame few people will notice when the walls are plastered over."

The Bull hotel dates back to the 17th Century and it was a monastic house, merchant's house and meeting hall before being adapted as a hotel. Until 1910 part of the building served as bank and the entrance to its hidden tunnel, discovered only a few years ago and thought to allow direct access to the church by the monks, is under the chef's office. Arkell's bought the hotel in 1973, and Judy Dudley and her son Mark have run the hotel for over 20 years.

"Old hotels need regular refurbishments, especially one as busy as The Bull," said Mark, "Fashions change too so goodbye avocado, hello sparkling white. Thankfully our four-poster beds never go out of fashion."

The Hotel is planning a party at the end of June when refurbishment is complete.

---

Old railway workers let train take strain

Retired railway workers from across England converged on The Tavern pub, Kemble last week to reminisce over old times. They came from as far afield as Staffordshire, Shoreman-by-Sea and even Crackington Haven, Cornwall - converging on the pub, which is next door to Kemble mainline station.

The group, which started in 1993 is 40-strong, meets monthly at pubs next to train stations across England and consists of retired signalmen, timetable managers and area managers. Members' ages' range from 82-year old former area manager Brian Simpson to 69-year old baby Norman Uzzell.

Norman (far right in attached photograph), a retired railways personnel manager from Wolverhampton, said: "There are lots of groups like ours who meet regularly. Our members tend to be drawn from the management, but there are former train-crew and engineers groups who also do the circuit."

"We all enjoy planning our trips - and if the trains are on time then we know exactly when everyone's going to arrive."

John Rebb, who was responsible for timetabling at British Rail, arrived at the pub on the 12.07 from Bodmin. Phil Ross arrived at 12.38 from Birmingham.

Tavern landlady, Tracey Scott, who only took over behind the bar a few weeks' ago, was delighted to see them. "The trouble is they wanted to know exactly what time I was serving their lunch," she said. "I felt like saying 'The next Cornish Pasty to arrive at your table will be the 1.10pm from The Tavern's kitchens'."

---

Moonrakers calls for Pinehurst's former schoolmates

The landlords of The Moonrakers at Stratton at are on the hunt for former students of Pinehurst school.

Pete and Bev Neal, who took over behind the bar at The Moonrakers in February, are on a mission to find old friends in the area and plan to host a series of reunion evenings over the next few months at their pub. The next one will be in July for former pupils of Headlands School.

But first it's Pinehurst School's turn on 17th June. "I grew up in this part of Swindon, and it's about time that I caught up with old friends who haven't yet dropped into the pub," said Bev - who ran Arkell's pub The Manor, Cheney Manor with Pete for years and The County Ground Hotel prior to that, before taking time out of the pub trade "for a bit of a breather", she says.

"One of the reasons we came back into the business was because The Moonrakers, one of the town's best-known pubs, became available - it's got the biggest function room in Swindon and I'm a bit of a party girl.

"It was the only room big enough to host Pete's 50th birthday some years' ago when around 400 people crammed in there, and Arkell's have just done it up so I want to show it off to everyone." Well-known across Swindon, Pete is a former British welterweight boxer.

Bev hopes that everyone will bring their old school photographs along with them and the disco will play 60's and 70's music.

For more information call Bev or Pete at The Moonrakers on 01793 721017.

---

Highwayman must 'stand and deliver'

The Highwayman pub on the A417/419 Cirencester-Gloucester is facing tough trading in June after Gloucestershire Highways announced that the road will close overnight for a month for resurfacing.

Landlord Mark Turner, who took over two years ago and has successfully built up the pub's trade, has been told that either the north-bound or southbound carriageway will close every evening from 8pm, Monday-Friday, to 6am the following morning from 31st May - 23rd June for 'essential resurfacing works'.

"This could knock a big proportion of our business on the head during one of our busiest months of the year." he said.

George Arkell, at pub owners Arkell's Brewery, said: "The Highwayman is the busiest it's been ever since the road was built - which must be more than ten years ago. It's a real rural success story - with fantastic food and a great new chef."

Now it looks like the Gloucestershire Highways want to put the boot in. Mark added: "Much of our business is passing trade because of where we are. For those that know the back roads around Winstone and Elkstone I say: Come along and support us, because we really want your custom.

"It's incredibly tough for the licensed trade at the moment and we would have though that the Highways department would have recognised this and done their best to help - it seems such a blanket approach to close the whole north-bound or southbound carried when they are resurfacing one carriageway at a time. I thought that's what bollards are for."

The Highways agency has already told the pub that it cannot do contraflow, because it would cost too much money.

Similar resurfacing work was carried out the month Mark took over The Highwayman less than two years ago, so he is bemused as to why it is happening again so soon.

"It knocked our trade then, and it will do so again," he said. "We work more than 12-hour days in this trade, and we love what we do but when what appears to be a 'jobs-worth' department come along and threaten your livelihood, it is a bitter pill to swallow."

---

It's GOLD for Arkell's new beer

Arkell's is launching Wiltshire Gold, its first new regular beer to be brewed and available all year round since 2003.

At 4% ABV, Wiltshire Gold is a light amber colour using Styrian Goldings with a gentle floral, hoppy aroma and a sweet, malty, hoppy taste.

Wiltshire Gold will be available across Arkell's estate of pubs from Monday 9 May onwards.

According to brewery director, George Arkell, it complements the Arkell's family of regular beers by adding a lighter ale to the range.

"Our customers' tastes are diverse. By adding Wiltshire Gold to our regular brews we feel that we now have a range of beers to appeal to real ale drinkers across the board." he said.

In 2003 Arkell's brewed Moonlight, paying tribute to 80-year old Peter Arkell's moonlight RAF flying sorties into occupied France during World War 2. Launched as a special, it was added to Arkell's regular stable of beers thanks to strong customer demand.

"After Moonlight, it was definitely time for some sunlight and that's how we think of Wiltshire Gold," said George.

Don Bracher, head brewer at Arkell's, explains: "Wiltshire Gold is very similar to our Summer Ale which has been a regular seasonal hit for the brewery for over ten years and which many people are always sorry to leave behind as winter approached. Now it can be summer all year round."


Arkell's stable of year-round beers are:

2B.
At 3.2% a lighter beer brewed constantly since the early 1900s
3B.
4% ABV. First brewed in 1910 and has been affectionately known as BBB or 3B by customers ever since. (One Swindon landlord says 'BBB' stands for "Big Boy's Beer".)
Kingsdown.
5% ABV. The strongest regular Arkell's beer, originally brewed as a special beer to commemorate Swindon Town Football Club's League Cup triumph in 1969. It went into regular production in 1976.
Moonlight.
4.5% ABV. Brewed in 2003 paying tribute to 80-year old Peter Arkell's moonlight RAF flying sorties into occupied France during World War 2. A special blend of malts and English Fuggles and Susan hops to give a beautiful golden colour, lingering taste and toasty aroma.

Smooth.
3.6% ABV. Satisfying the demand for 'smooth' beers, its lower alcohol content makes it a lighter alternative to other 'smooth' beers which are available.
And of course:

Arkell's Czech-style Pilsner, launched in 2009.
3.8% ABV. Brewed in the classic traditional Czech fashion, using Czech hops such as the Saaz. Bottom fermented and cold-conditioned.

---

All hands to beer pumps for Help for Heroes

All hands to beer pumps for Help for Heroes

It will be all hands to the pumps at The Riverside Inn, Lechlade on 4 June when hundreds of walkers raising money for Help for Heroes descend on the pub after completing the Thames Challenge, a 16-mile walk starting at Newbridge.

The walk is being organised by Dave Lewis, a Hercules Ground Engineer who has been on Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of a crew.

He said: "We have transported badly injured personnel from the more remote areas of the country, as well as the coffins of our fallen troops. As part of my rehabilitation after an injury, I spent time on courses at Headley Court and witnessed the same injured troops being treated and getting used to false limbs. These experiences persuaded me get involved with Help for Heroes."

Part of his rehabilitation was to do a lot of walking and in September 2009 he organised the first Malvern Challenge, when more than 100 walkers taking part. This event has grown and been run annually ever since. This year, after becoming the Oxfordshire County Coordinator for Help for Heroes, he has added this second event to his fund-raising calendar.

"With RAF Lyneham closing and moving to RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire I thought it would be a good way to introduce the Lyneham personnel to the area and to Brize Norton personnel. It will also introduce everyone to the Thames path, the pubs along the river and the beautiful town of Lechlade."

When Dave approached The Riverside Inn, Arkell's Brewery immediately threw their weight behind the idea and offered him the use of the pub for the day - which sits on the Thames path and has big river-fronted gardens.

George Arkell, brewery director, said: "It's a great idea and we are even badging one of our beers especially for the day. Dave's team are also aiming to raise funds for 'Beer for the Boys', which we thoroughly approve of."

'Beer for the Boys' is a charity run by 216 Sqn, which provides a beer for every person returning from Afghanistan on one of their Tristar aircraft.

Dave added: "I have been the recipient of a beer many times on my return to the UK and it is a very welcome drink. It also makes you feel like people are thinking about you and appreciate what you do."

Dave adds: "The response to this first Thames Walk has been amazing with many Lechlade businesses getting involved and walkers starting to register."

The 16-mile walk runs along the Thames Path from Newbridge to Lechlade taking in five pubs en route. There is also the option of a 12 mile walk starting at The Trout at Lechlade or an 8 mile walk from The Swan at Radcott.
At the finish in Lechlade, walkers will be presented with a medal and there will be a raffle/auction, entertainment and a barbecue - all taking place at The Riverside Inn.
Visit: www.events4h4h.org.uk for details and how to register for the walk.

http://www.riverside-lechlade.com

---

Roger 'bottles' out at 84!

84-year old Roger Partridge refilled the shelves of the Kingsdown Inn for the last time today after working at the Arkell's pub for 20 years, first as the gardener and then inside bottling up and as general help.

Kingsdown landlords John and Liz McGregor threw him a farewell party and brewery chairman James Arkell came along to say a personal thankyou to probably the oldest bottler in town.

After a career working for the RAF in Iraq during the war, at Short Brothers, in the stores at Swindon's railway works and at Pressed Steel, Thamesdown Council and Nationwide Roger retired once before becoming bored and offering to look after the gardens at The Kingsdown Inn at Stratton.

He began bottling up a few years later and enjoyed the bustle and friendliness of the busy pub.

"I only live down the road and it's been great to earn a bit of money, then to put it back behind the bar in the evenings when I come in and have a drink with my friends," he said.

But at 84 he decided enough was enough, and while he still plans to be a regular on the customer side of the bar, he think's it's time to put his feet up during the day. Next week he's off to Wales to visit his younger brother Clive, 69, who lives in Barmouth.

"I won't be there long, though, because their local pub's closed down. And anyway, there's no place like home, especially when it's close to a pint of beer."

James Arkell said: "He's a wonderful example to us all - but if he think it's time to bottle out at 84, we'll miss him, but we salute him. It must have been all the Arkell's that kept him fit and active."

---

Kids play out in The Sun

More than 30 children were queuing to get in when landlords Dave Preston and Rebecca Mallows threw open the gates to their new children's play area at The Sun at Coate Water.

"The Sun was definitely shining for us the day we opened it and word got out about the new play area so we hope for a summer of hot and busy weekends for everyone" said Dave, who has been running the busy Arkell's pub for two years.

Since Dave and Rebecca took over The Sun it has got busier and busier - but before Dave took over he'd never pulled a pint in his life. This former employee of Swindon-based Threadneedle Investments spent most of his life commuting between Swindon and London.

He hasn't got a minute's regret at leaving his desk-based former life behind though - especially when the sun comes out and the pub gardens are alive with families enjoying themselves.

"I love running a busy pub, and Arkell's investment in the children's area make sound financial sense, as parents will come and relax more as they know their children can play safely and happily."

The new play area has specially-designed safety flooring and all-new play equipment.

More than 30 children were queuing to get in when landlords Dave Preston and Rebecca Mallows threw open the gates to their new children"s play area at The Sun at Coate Water this week.

"The Sun is definitely shining for us this weekend, and word got out about the new play area so we're hoping for a hot and busy weekend for everyone" said Dave, who has been running the busy Arkell's pub for two years.

Since Dave and Rebecca took over The Sun it has got busier and busier - but before Dave took over he'd never pulled a pint in his life. This former employee of Swindon-based Threadneedle Investments spent most of his life commuting between Swindon and London.

He hasn't got a minute's regret at leaving his desk-based former life behind though - especially when the sun comes out and the pub gardens are alive with families enjoying themselves.

"I love running a busy pub, and Arkell's investment in the children's area make sound financial sense, as parents will come and relax more as they know their children can play safely and happily."

The new play area has specially-designed safety flooring and all-new play equipment.

---

Tribute to townspeople of 'Royal' Wootton Bassett

Arkell's Brewery is proud to announce that, in recognition of Wootton Bassett's new royal charter status, it is brewing a special new beer called Royal Bassett Ale in tribute to the townspeople who have turned out, rain or shine, to honour fallen servicemen as their bodies are brought back home.

The beer is now available and £10 from each barrel will go directly to The Soldiers Charity, formerly The Army Benevolent Fund, which gives lifetime support to serving and retired soldiers and their families.

Arkell's has a long association with the services. Peter Arkell, who died last year, flew as an RAF pilot behind enemy lines during the Second World War. Brewery Chairman James Arkell is a retired Lieutenant Colonel of The Royal Wiltshire Yeomanry, his son George, who is also a director at the brewer, is currently serving as an officer in the same regiment. George's brother Captain John Arkell of the Light Dragoon Guards was wounded on his second tour of Afghanistan in 2009 when an explosion hit part of his 30-man patrol in Helmand Province.

James Arkell, who has attended a number of repatriation ceremonies, said: "We have all been personally and immensely touched by the respect shown by the townspeople of Wootton Bassett to our servicemen. It is both a deep honour and privilege to be able to do this."


Head brewer, Don Bracher, added: "I have friends who turned out every week to pay their personal tribute to those who have fought and died on this country's behalf. This is our small tribute to those who wish to quietly but publically recognise the enormous sacrifice that so many or our armed forces have made."

---

Millie's Blue Sapphire Tribute to Royal Couple

Ten year old Millie Hemphill with Head Brewer Don Bracher and George Arkell

Ten-year old Millie Hemphill has won a competition held by Upper Stratton's Ruskin Junior School and Arkell's Brewery to come up with a name and design for the brewery's Royal ale, which will be on sale in Arkell's pubs across Swindon from early April.

Her name for the Royal beer is Blue Sapphire. Millie said: "I named the beer because of the engagement ring Prince William gave to Kate Middleton."

Millie's name and design for the beer was chosen from almost 100 entries from Ruskin pupils and brewery director George Arkell, along with Head Brewer Don Bracher, visited the school last Friday to announce the news.

George said: "We were absolutely delighted at the number of entries we received for this competition and we had a really hard time to come up with the eventual winner. We did draw up a shortlist of five but Millie won because her chosen name matched her lovely design for the pump clip. She had obviously spent a lot of time thinking about the project and doing the design. Well done Millie."

The short list of five included: Georgia Simms, Class 7 who came up with the name of Royal Windsor, Adam Crook, Class 10: Royal Ale. Megan Attwood, Class 4: Royal Hearts and Kayleigh Beveridge, Class 7: Wiki Malt Ale (a clever anagram of William and Kate).
Blue Sapphire will be sold as cask ale only, and available in polypins for local and street celebrations.

It will be brewed from Organic First Gold Hops and have an ABV of 4.7%.

For more information or to reserve or buy and barrel, contact Arkell's Brewery on 01793 823026.

---

White Hart at Stratton carves up new restaurant

After a major investment three years' ago in The White Hart at Stratton, Swindon, Arkell's Brewery has just completed a further stage of investment in one of its largest pubs by converting the restaurant into a brand new carvery for the town.

Managed by Richard Crickmar, who also manages one of Arkell's most successful pubs, The Tawny Owl at Taw Hill, The White Hart opened its doors last Friday and had a busy first weekend.

Brewery director George Arkell, said: "After some years out of favour, the carvery concept is proving very popular again, probably because it's a great way to cater for the diverse tastes of all the family without blowing the budget.

"The White Hart at Stratton was the obvious choice for us to prove this: It's a spacious building, with a big car park and just off one of Swindon's busiest junctions: the A419/Oxford Road roundabout."

The original carvery concept dates back many decades and probably originated from traditional gentlemen's clubs where a range of traditional roast meats and vegetables were displayed in the dining rooms. The concept was popularised in the 1970s and 1980s when some pub and restaurant discovered that it was a great way to offer fresh food to the increasing number of people who were starting to eat out regularly.

As tastes changed in the 1990s towards more 'gastro-dining', the concept died away but as people are now demanding good food at competitive prices the carvery is now enjoying a resurgence in popularity as diners remember that because all the food is on show, they know exactly what they're getting and the final bill often works out cheaper because there's less waste.

---

Liquorish to have allsorts of fun at Fox & Hounds

Well known local landlords Mickey Liquorish and Ali Wright along with many of their team who for years ran The Bunk at Curridge have taken over at nearby The Fox and Hounds, Donnington near Newbury, Berkshire and plan to rename the pub as a tribute to its charismatic former landlord, Harry Coates.

Arkell's Brewery, which owns the pub, has set its painters on the case and from next month the pub will be renamed Harry's Bar and Kitchen.

Harry is remembered as one of the best landlords in England by many around Newbury, despite having died a few years ago. "Harry was the most professional landlord I've ever met," said Mickey. "He remembered all his customers and their favourite drink; he was the perfect host and a legend that I was lucky enough to know."

The most famous Harry's Bar in the world lies in Venice and boasted famous customers such as Ernest Hemingway, who spent many months writing novels there, Charlie Chaplin and Aristotle Onassis. Mickey and Ali say that everyone's welcome at Harry's Bar and Kitchen at Donnington, whatever their name - and if anyone wants to write a best-selling novel there, there's a perfect table with strong wifi connection in the corner.

George Arkell at Arkell's Brewery, said: "There are a lot of similarities between Mickey and the famous Harry Coates, both with big personalities and the gift for being a great landlord. As there are many Fox and Hounds pubs around the area we were very happy with Mickey and Ali's suggestion that we rename the pub. One thing is for sure: As a team, Mickey and Ali are unique and so is Harry's Bar and Kitchen."

---

Arkells turns rural pubs on their heads

Arkells has appointed the country's first Brewery Community Liaison Manager to get rural pubs and parish councils working together. Richard Turner, who has over 30 years' experience in the brewing industry, will work with Arkell's rural pubs to build links with local parish councils and communities helping to sustain rural and pub life.

Brewery chairman James Arkell spearheaded the move as rural pubs are at particular risk of rising costs and difficult trading conditions. "With rural post offices and village stores closing, the role of the village pub is changing and there are opportunities for these pubs which weren't there before," he said. "If new initiatives are supported by the local community, they could improve a pub's viability and reintroduce local amenities which have been lost. Richard will work with the local community and pub landlord, to identify what is and isn't practical and make viable initiatives happen."

Richard Turner was Arkell's Free Trade Director before retiring a few years ago. He said: "The current issues facing rural pubs aren't new, but have been exacerbated over the last few years with the spiraling cost of utilities, staff and the smoking ban. Where local post offices have closed, a number of Arkell's pubs have already taken the initiative to offer rural postal services. Others sell grocery essentials such as milk, bread, eggs and daily newspapers. This benefits everyone. We are encouraging input and support from local communities where this has yet to happen."

Richard will also work directly with pub landlords to secure rural rate relief and reduce energy and utility costs. Other initiatives such as alternative uses for a pub will also be considered.

"Creative, lateral thinking is needed, and that's where we hope local communities will come forward," he said.

At the Rose and Crown, Ashbury near Swindon the local community is already firmly on board. The pub, with its restaurant and letting accommodation, is being run by relief landlords Barry Barker and Malin Ricknell who have been so impressed with village support they are considering applying to take over the license permanently. When the previous landlords announced they were leaving in February, Arkells invited the village to tell them what they wanted from their local pub. At the first meeting the pub was packed with over a hundred locals wanting to have their say and a village steering committee has been established to share ideas and support the brewery.

The Rose & Crown lies in the centre of Ashbury, a pretty village at the foot of the Berkshire Downs in one of the most scenic areas on the borders of Wiltshire and South Oxfordshire. It has not been immune to the economic downturn and recently lost its village shop.

Leading the steering group is local man Steve Treadwell. He said: "The Rose & Crown is woven into the fabric of our community. It is the hub of the village and we are delighted to be able to work with Arkell's to find the right tenant.'

Ashbury has an impressive background, attracting celebrities such as Jude Law and more recently local neighbour legendry leader of The Who, Pete Townshend. It has an enviable location at the foot of the Ridgeway National Trail and famous White Horse Hill draws walkers and tourists from far and wide.

---

Arkell's to rescue and reopen Jericho pub

A Jericho pub which looked destined for permanent closure is the second pub in Oxford to have been rescued to be reopened by Wiltshire brewer Arkells.

The Radcliffe Arms on Cranham Street which closed in July 2010, has been bought by Arkell's from Scottish and Newcastle Breweries. The new landlords will be Chris Manners and Leo Johnson who have been running the hugely successful Rusty Bicycle in Magdalen Road, Oxford since Arkell's bought old pub The Eagle to refurbish, rename and reopen it in 2009.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be able to buy and reopen this pub. It's had an unhappy history since the local council sold it in 2009 but we want to repeat what we have done at the Rusty Bicycle and invest money and tender, loving care in the building before reopening to sell well-kept real ale and good food. Chris and Leo are the perfect men for the job."

He added: "When we reopen the pub, we hope that local people will come in, enjoy themselves and put their pub back at the heart of the community."

Chris and Leo will continue to run the Rusty Bicycle alongside The Radcliffe Arms. Arkell's took possession of the pub this week and will spend 6-8 weeks refurbishing and refitting the pub before reopening in early April.

The Radcliffe Arms on Cranham Street which closed in July 2010, has been bought by Arkell's from Scottish and Newcastle Breweries. The new landlords will be Chris Manners and Leo Johnson who have been running the hugely successful Rusty Bicycle in Magdalen Road, Oxford since Arkell's bought old pub The Eagle to refurbish, rename and reopen it in 2009.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be able to buy and reopen this pub. It's had an unhappy history since the local council sold it in 2009 but we want to repeat what we have done at the Rusty Bicycle and invest money and tender, loving care in the building before reopening to sell well-kept real ale and good food. Chris and Leo are the perfect men for the job."

He added: "When we reopen the pub, we hope that local people will come in, enjoy themselves and put their pub back at the heart of the community."

Chris and Leo will continue to run the Rusty Bicycle alongside The Radcliffe Arms. Arkell's took possession of the pub this week and will spend 6-8 weeks refurbishing and refitting the pub before reopening in early April.

---

Lord Lyon Rides to Victory

The Lord Lyon at Stockcross has beaten off tough competition to be awarded the hotly-contested Community Pub of the Year for 2011 by West Berks CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale)

Customers nominated the Arkell's pub for an impressive 24 distinct reasons, according to West Berks Camra. Too numerous to list in full, these include: making the pub's garden available to local schools for projects (including 'meet the chicken' and vegetable gardening); hosting a party for the last night of the Stockcross pantomime; providing a venue for the village's book group, bridge, guitar and knitting clubs; supporting the local cricket and football clubs; aiding charities including the Sutton (village) hall.

The pub is named after a famous thoroughbred racehorse which won the three prestigious races that comprise the Triple Crown in 1866.

James Arkell, Chairman Arkell's Brewery, said: "We are thrilled that Mark's hard work at The Lord Lyon has been recognised by West Berks CAMRA. He's a fantastic landlord, a real professional, who works almost around the clock to make sure that the pub is at the centre of the local community. His beer is excellent and since he took over we have had to double the number of real ale hand pulls in the pub."

On hearing that the pub, which he has been running since April 2010, had won the award, Mark said "We're very pleased, it's marvellous! It recognises all the team's hard work."

Adrian Bean, Chairman of West Berkshire CAMRA, said of the Lord Lyon, 'What impressed me about the pub was the range of local events that were mentioned as happening at the pub or being supported by the pub. These included the village book club, the Guitar club, children's parties and prizes for village events. The fact that people felt that the pub acted as the hub of the village was also very important.'

West Berkshire CAMRA thanked everyone who took the trouble to nominate a pub for the award.

Hazel Munro, the West Berkshire Pubs Officer said: "Now is a good time to go out and find more about your local and its ties to the community. We will be opening nominations for the 2012 award within the next two months. So do your research and keep an eye on the website so you can put your pub forward for the next award."

---

Back behind the bar and over the Moonies

One of Swindon's most formidable landlord teams is back after three years out of the business. Former British welterweight boxer Pete Neal and his wife Bev have are back running The Moonrakers, Stratton. The couple previously ran The Manor at Cheney Manor for nine years and The County Ground Hotel.

At the height of their popularity at The Manor, one of Arkell's busiest town pubs, Bev was serving almost 150 Sunday lunches every week and is hoping to repeat this success when she starts serving Sunday lunches from March. But most of all, she says, she's going to make sure The Moonrakers returns to its former role as the centre of the community of Stratton.

"The first thing we did when taking over was to ask Arkell's to rebuild the wall between the public and lounge bar/dining area," said Bev. "I want to be able to invite my friends in for a nice glass of wine, without hearing the lads cheering their team on Sky sports. That way, everyone enjoys themselves and old and young family members feel welcome."

The couple also plan on having live music on Saturday nights - but it won't be rock and roll - more 1970/80s music as well as jazz and blues.

Since leaving The Manor a few years ago, because they needed 'a bit of a breather' from pub life, the couple have been busy buying and renovating houses, but when they heard the tenancy for The Moonrakers was becoming available, they jumped at the chance - and this time they have brought their entire family in to help.

"Pete held his 50th birthday party in the function room a few years" ago - there were more than 400 people crammed in there and it was a fantastic night," said Bev. "Now both our daughters have given up their jobs to help us run the pub so it's going to be a real family affair."

Brewery chairman, James Arkell, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Pete and Bev back. I can't think of any other couple I would rather have running one of Wiltshire and Swindon's most iconic pubs and putting it back on the map."

---

Brownie points for Jack at Lansdowne Strand

It's Calne's biggest hotel, now new manager Jack Clarke hopes to develop a reputation for food to match, so this week he set out with a plate of squidgy chocolate brownies and the new menus for The Lansdowne Strand Hotel.

"I wanted to offer local people a taste test and the feedback was great," he said. "They say a way to a man's heart is through his stomach - and it seems to go for ladies too as I'd hardly got further than the library across the road before my plate had been cleared and I had to go back to the hotel kitchens for more."

This is 25-year-old Jacks' first managerial role for Arkell's Brewery, which owns the hotel, after having undergone a thorough training with the brewery over the last two years.

"The hotel is historic, in a great location and I can put my training into action," he said. "Being a successful manager means long hours, but I'm not in the least afraid of hard work and as the hotel's got a thriving bar, coffee lounge and function room trade, the time goes fast. Now it's time to beef up the restaurant with a new chef on board - even if it means more working hours for me!"

Jack did some research and went around the town looking at what else was on offer. "What Calne seems to lack is unpretentious food made from good quality produce, so that's what we've put on the menus," he said. "We also want the hotel to remain firmly at the centre of the community so we give 20% discount cards to any senior citizens who come in and ask - and for children under 12 too."

James Arkell, Chairman at Arkell's Brewery which bought The Lansdowne Strand Hotel in 2007, said: "Running a busy town centre hotel is a big responsibility but Jack's got a great attitude and he certainly earned brownie points from shoppers in Calne last week."

Jack added: "It's been an amazing few weeks and best of all, the locals have really supported me and for that I thank them all."

---

200 reckon they might have the pub factor

Nearly 200 people turned out for Arkell's Prospective Landlords Day at The Tawny Owl, Taw Hill, Swindon.

Visitors came from as far afield as Manchester, Swansea and London, as well as many local people, all keen to see what was involved.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "Arkell's Brewery has around 100 pubs across The South and West and we're always on the look-out for good landlords."

He added: "We were thrilled with the number of people who came through the doors yesterday. It was a great opportunity to meet so many people and share our experiences of working in the industry and running a pub. We usually have some vacancies across our pub estate and we hope we can help some of the new and enthusiastic people we met yesterday into a new career in the licensed trade. It's all about matching the right person to the right pub."

It takes a certain sort of person to be a landlord, according to George. "A good landlord needs flair, spirit, personality and a liking of your fellow man (and woman)," he said. "We can't write a job description for the perfect pub landlord: What they need is the 'pub factor' - we know it when we meet them, and when we do, we give all the help they need.
"We are a 160-year old family brewery with great pubs," said George "To us, it's absolutely all about the people and the beer, and that's the way we want it to stay."

For more information on how to become an Arkell's landlord visit www.arkells.com

Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sLc7qS206w to find out more.

---

Lord Lyon turns austerity age to village advantage

The Lord Lyon pub at Stockcross near Newbury is turning the age of austerity to the village's advantage by making an unused piece of land next to the pub into a kitchen garden - with the help of some of the locals.

Landlord Mark Genders has also installed a dozen Rhode Island Red chickens who felt so at home that they began producing eggs for the pub kitchen even before he'd had a chance to christen them.

"The chickens are so productive that we've been trying to think of lots of eggy recipes for the pub," said Mark, who has been tenant at the Arkell's Brewery-owned pub for less than a year. "Without doubt our egg mayonnaise sandwiches are the best I've ever tasted - especially when the mayonnaise is home-made."

Mark is asking the pupils at Stockcross Primary School, near the pub, to come up with names for the chickens.

It might only be January but the garlic, planted late last year, is already starting to grow and Mark and his support crew of retired villagers are starting to plan the year's crops.

"We're buying seeds in bulk and sharing them around the village to save money," adds Mark. "We'll grow all our own salad plants and we'll use heritage vegetables - commonly grown long ago and which generally have more flavour than the conveyor-belt supermarket vegetables many of us are used to."

George Arkell at Arkell's Brewery, said: "I hope Mark will be paying his expert gardeners in cabbages, carrots and eggs. More seriously, it's fantastic to see Stockcross residents getting involved and speaks volumes for local community spirit."

---

Top Landlord Tip 13

Start a discount club for regular customers - a few pennies off a pint, and meal discounts, can often encourage customers to stay longer.

---

Familiar face rides The White Horse at Woolstone

Thanks to a little help from pub owner Arkell's and his friends and fellow local pub landlords, Keith Adams was up and running straight away at The White Horse at Woolstone near Shrivenham - just a week before Christmas with a foot of snow on the ground.

"It was great," he said. "The thing about rural pub landlords is that we're all in it together, and having worked as a landlord in this area before, I know everyone and they know me. That was a great help when faced with snow and ice the day I moved in."

Having run pubs around Wiltshire and Oxfordshire for years, Keith had decided to return to his native Ireland early last year, but Arkell's boss George Arkell called immediately when the tenancy of The White Horse at Woolstone became vacant.

"I spent just five months back in County Antrim before coming back here, and it's great to be back," said Keith.

"The White Horse is an iconic local pub and is always very busy in the summer with walkers from White Horse Hill and The Ridgway. In the winter it's quieter because it's tucked away, so I want to build up the winter trade by offering everything from baguettes and soups for the walkers to gastro-pub food for those who love it."

Keith is also planning to appoint a top-notch chef. "People around here expect the best," he said.

George Arkell said: "It's great to have Keith at The White Horse and I'm not surprised at the camaraderie of his fellow local landlords. We all rallied around to get the pub up and running with him behind the bar during the coldest winter in 120 years."

---

Top Landlord Tip 12

Everyone loves a pub quiz. Here are some ideas:
Smell, Touch and Taste Quizzes, smell quizzes available from Freequizes.co.uk, touch - place everyday objects in sealed jiffy bags to pass round and guess, taste- use chunks of different cheeses or different flavoured crisps to guess

---

Top Landlord Tip 11

Put your business on the map, the Google map that is: Google World - it is a modern world so put yourself ahead of the competition in internet searches. Simply visit google.com, click on googlemaps and they'll guide you through the process. It takes less than ten minutes.

---

Top Landlord Tip 10

Organise a pub outing to your local brewery or a day at the races. Everyone loves looking forward to a day out - and it helps to create a community within the pub.

---

Top Landlord Tip 9

Start selling herbal & detox teas, alongside your coffee offer to help your customer's New Year resolutions.

---

Top Landlord Tip 8

Raffle a meal for two on Valentines night for just a pound a ticket. You'll probably raise more than the meals would cost, it will promote your menu and you will still gain drinks sales from the table - a win, win situation

---

Top Landlord Tip 7

Take a moment to look at your pub as a customer. Would you want to spend time here with friends & family - what can be improved?

---

Top Landlord Tip 6

New Year's Eve tonight but Burns night's on 25th Jan. Offer Haggis, Tatties & Neaps supper with a wee dram to all "traditionally" worn kilts

---

Top Landlord Tip 5

New Year New Wine Menu. Launch with a customer tasting session. Ask your wine company to provide wine & host,they want to drive sales too.

---

Top Landlord Tip 4

On New Year's day offer complementary black coffees to all customers who make it back in the next day after joining in your pub's previous night's celebrations

---

Top Landlord Tip 3

Today's Landlords Tip

Serve Hot toddies on the bar to chase away winter colds, and orange juice to top up vitamin C levels.

---

Great Prospect for Arkell's Beer Festival

Arkell's Brewery chairman, James Arkell presented Prospect Hospice Chief Executive, Angela Jordan, with a cheque for £4,000 raised during Arkell's Beer Festival, held in September.

The festival, which attracted more than 800 people, was the best yet according to Sales Director Nick Arkell.

Over 2500 pints were consumed from the forty barrels of real ales donated from Arkell's and fellow family brewers across the country by visitors, who started pouring through the brewery's gates before the official opening by the Mayor of Swindon.

Prospect Hospice cares for more than 1600 patients each year and receives just 26% of income from statutory organisations. Each year it must raise more than £4.5 million to continue providing care the community relies on.

Alongside the real ales, there was entertainment throughout the afternoon, including vintage fire engines, motor cyles and steam engines, musical entertainment and even the Morris Dancers, as well as the opportunity for visitors to enjoy tours of the historic brewery.

James Arkell, who is also Vice Chairman of Prospect Hospice, said: "We love the atmosphere of the beer festival and the weather was wonderful throughout the day. Practically all our staff gave up their weekend to make sure the day went with a bang. As ever, our visitors were generous with their time and their donations - it's a wonderful sum to have raised for a hugely worthwhile charity."

Angela Jordan at Prospect said: "From everyone at Prospect Hospice, we thank the team at Arkell's for raising funds at their beer festival, and also everyone who came along to help raise the astonishing £4,000. It's a very welcome boost for us, and will make a real difference to the care of patients and families this Christmas and into the new year."

---

Top Landlord Tip 2

Arkell's Brewery Top Landlords Tip Day 2

Sell gift vouchers, if your customers enjoy themselves what better gift could they give than a good time at your pub - the original gift experience

---

Top Tips for Landlords from Arkell's

Christmas and New Year are generally the busiest for pub landlords but January is often a different story.

To support their landlords during one of the traditionally quietest months of the year, Swindon-based Arkell's Brewery will offer one top tip to help encourage customers through the pub door every day from now until the end of December.

Every tip will be on Arkell's website and announced daily via Twitter (ArkellsBrewery).

Brewery Director, George Arkell, said: "It's tough for landlords at the moment, and we are helping them as much as we can. These tips are pint-sized ideas that our training and recruitment manager, Julie Moss, is using in her pub in Hampshire. They're tried and tested and have boosted her trade. Many landlords are already following these tips, but we hope they act as a reminder and will inspire others too."

The Brewery is kicking off the campaign by offering three top tips today:

Top Tip 1: Snow must go on! Snow & Ice forecast this week. Clear & salt steps & car parks, a safe customer is a returning customer.

Top Tip 2: Strike reciprocal discount offer with local taxi firm so customers using them to/from pub get discount on taxi fare & food bill

Top Tip 3: Serve free toast before 11am to any customer ordering and paying for a hot drink.

---

Pints of passion? You've got the pub factor

Arkell's Brewery is hunting for people with pints of passion, shots of drive and a spirit for hard work when it throws an open day for new landlords at The Tawny Owl, Taw Hill, Swindon on Tuesday 25 January 2011 from 1pm - 8.30pm.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: "Arkell's Brewery has 100 pubs across Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Hampshire and we're always on the look-out for good landlords. At this time of year many people consider a change in career, so we're offering a look at the licensed trade."

Julie Moss at The White Hart at Whitchurch, Hampshire, loves being a landlady so much, she's made a YouTube video about how others can do it too.

Julie has run the pretty town centre hotel alongside husband Andy ever since Arkell's bought it in 2004. She said: "Running a pub is getting a pretty hard press at the moment, but I've not regretted for a day our decision to make this our career. We've got two small children and a great life. I want to share what it means so the White Hart team got together and made a short video."

It takes a certain sort of person to be a landlord, according to George. "A good landlord needs flair, spirit, personality and a liking of your fellow man (and woman)," he adds. "We can't write a job description for the perfect pub landlord: What they need is the 'pub factor' we know it when we meet them, and when we do, we give all the help they need."

Julie adds: "Running a pub requires dedication and some money of your own to invest, but if you're the right person at the right time of your life, it's the business."

"We are a 160-year old family brewery with pubs, not a big pubco," said George "To us, it's absolutely all about the people - and the beer, and that's the way we want it to stay."

For more information on how to become an Arkell's landlord visit www.arkells.com or come along to the event on 25 January. Contact Arkell's Brewery for more details on 01793 823026.

---

21- Nun Salute!

Up to 21 'nuns' will be on stage at the Bingham Hall in Cirencester this Saturday (December 11) raising money for Cancer Relief.

Indefatigable Arkell's landlady Sharon Scrivens from The Bee's Knees, Watermoor, Cirencester is organising the "Bad Habits" event which features regulars from the pub dressed up as nuns and performing well-known songs, all for charity.

The 'nuns' are not just female - they include five or six brave rugby players and the concert is called Rocking around the Christmas Tree.

Sharon, a well-known local fundraiser, started up Bad Habits last year with a bunch of friends from the pub and they put on their first show during the summer. It was a sell-out. She's now being asked to arrange shows for various pubs and charitable organisations around the town - and has even got a booking from the British Legion for next year.

Sharon is a very successful Arkell's landlady and really looks after the local community. She'll deliver lunches to housebound senior citizens who live nearby and has raised thousands for charities in the past. She's also got a very loyal customer following who will turn out rain or shine to support anything she does. Her husband Nigel Scrivens played rugby for Gloucester, clocking up an impressive 250 games before he retired.

The concert at the Bingham Hall is a big fun singalong and includes supper. Tickets are £15 available on the door or by calling the pub. Tel. 01285 652112.

The Bees Knees - more info

---

Professional Beer Taster 'Crowned' at Broad Hinton

Locals visiting The Crown at Broad Hinton near Swindon will be drinking some of the best-tasting beer in Wiltshire after new landlords, Alla and Dave Wells took over last month.

Alla is a professional beer taster and before moving in as landlady to the Arkell's-owned pub, spent years providing professional consultancy to breweries across the UK.

Russian-born Alla, also a qualified lawyer and teacher, lived in St Petersburg before marrying Dave and moving to the UK 12 years ago.

Now she is making sure her beers are in top quality condition for drinkers at the pub.

"Word soon got around and the locals drunk the pub dry of beer on our first night behind the bar," she said. "Since then we've almost quadrupled the amount of beer we've sold and added Arkell's JRA and Moonlight to our regular beers. Our customers do seem to like them."

George Arkell, brewery director, said: "This is just the sort of landlady we love. She appreciates good beer and can offer advice to customers on what to taste for and how to drink real ale for maximum enjoyment. Beer is so much tastier than vodka."

For husband Dave, this is a second career after his first as a photographer.

"I met Alla whilst working on a job in St Petersburg and we kept in touch as pen pals before getting to know each other better when I returned to the city. Little did we know then that 12 years later we'd be living in one of Wiltshire's prettiest villages close to the famous Ridgway footpath with a five-year old boy and running one of Arkell's best pubs."

The couple took over employment of all the staff from the previous landlord, many of whom have been there for many years, and promoted Oliver Moody to chef.

He said: "I worked here for almost a year under the previous landlords and I'm thrilled to now have full responsibility in the kitchen. We're keeping the most popular menu items including the Sunday carvery and the fabulous fish and chips, and introducing a select number of new dishes. We're also buying a lot locally - sometimes very locally when we're offered birds from the local shoot: There are no food miles in a local pheasant!"

The Crown, Broad Hinton - more info

---

As the cold bites, you're better off down the pub

There seems to be little sign of the cold weather ending, and as households across the country turn up the thermostat, Arkell's Brewery is urging everyone to keep heating costs down, spirits up and conversation flowing by going down to their local.

According to Tom Lyon an energy expert from U-Switch, speaking on BBC Breakfast this week, the cost of heating the home could almost double as people keep their heating on for longer.

And for those who live alone, with the curtains drawn and the doors closed, there's also the threat of social isolation which, according to a report by psychologists from the University of Toronto, makes people feel colder still.

Heading down to the pub will not only keep your own costs down but could help keep you healthy and happy according to The Family Brewers of Britain, which represents the oldest family brewing companies across the country.

The organisation, of which Arkell's is a member, says that beer is packed with many of the nutrients the body needs for a healthy diet. Unlike other alcoholic drinks it's full of vitamins, minerals and has a water content of 93 per cent. In general, lower strength drinks such as ale, have been shown to be absorbed more slowly from the stomach leading to lower blood alcohol concentrations. Moderate consumption of beer can provide many essential vitamins and minerals but of course it's important to remember that no single source can provide the full range of elements essential for life, so beer must always be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet - perhaps something from the bar menu!

A litre of beer will supply 10% of daily protein needs. In comparison, wine has none. It has absolutely no cholesterol or fat and has useful quantities of soluble fibre. It has no more calories than a serving of wine (half a pint contains 110 calories), and a lot less than milk or apple juice. Polyphenols in beer are as effective at scavenging harmful cancer inducing free radicals as those in red wine.

In moderation, beer does not make you fat and its constituents are proven to help make a balanced diet.

Brewery director, George Arkell, said: 'As far as we're concerned the evidence is conclusive - you're better off down the pub, and that could be the key factor in saving your local pub from closure over these difficult winter months'.

Arkell\'s Pubs Map - more info

---

More News Stories