Cheers North East magazine #57 - February 2016

cheers WWW.CHEERSNORTHEAST.CO.UK // FEBRUARY 2016 // ISSUE 57

I T ’ S

A B O U T

P U B S ,

P E O P L E ,

B E E R

–

A N D

Y O U !

FLOODS ALERT US TO THE VALUE OF OUR PUBS

LOOK DOWN ON SPOONS’ CARPETS WITH NEW INSIGHT

ONE OF US IS LONELY ONE OF US IS ONLY A PINT A DAY IS THE NEW GUIDELINE

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WELCOME An awful lot has happened since our previous issue of December/ January – some of it affecting our pubs so much that many of them will never be the same again. The rains came in early December and hardly let up during the whole month and on into the new year.

Flooding that was once “a oncein-a-lifetime” occurrence is now so regular that billions is having to be spent to protect homes and businesses from the devastating effects of filthy, bacteria-ridden water. Cumbria, South West Scotland, The Borders, the North East and North Yorkshire have been particularly badly hit and it’s not simply a case of drying out and getting on with brewing beer and pulling pints, it’s months of insurance wrangle, paperwork and sheer hard work – all before any money is spent – to get back into business.

Here’s the plan: find out as many pubs as you can that have been flooded, give them until late spring or early summer (it can take up to six months before they’re back into action), then make a point of visiting them. Do it again and again and you’ll be doing your bit to help a great industry survive.

Until then, however, you can get into practice by taking advantage of the longer days, shake off those winter blues and enjoy everything that pubs are renowned for – great company, food and drink with a quiz or two, live music, and a game of darts thrown in.

These recent events have highlighted the social importance of our pubs and the vital role they play in every community, whether they’re on a housing estate or in a rural village. Let’s get out and use them to the full.

Alastair Gilmour Editor, Cheers North East

EDITORIAL 01661 844 115 07930 144 846 Alastair Gilmour alastair@cheersnortheast.co.uk @CheersPal www.cheersnortheast.co.uk We are tweeting.

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CONTENTS 16-17

ONE FOR THE MONEY

We all recognise the health warnings and the dangers of drinking too much, but is there really any need to advise drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week? What about the social benefits of visiting a pub? Surely wellbeing comes from meeting people and having a good time? People who regularly go to pubs are reckoned to be happier and more content with their lives, but restricting us to a pint a day could be regarded as counterproductive. And, what about promoting friendships and positive social lives made through enjoying a drink rather than counting to 14 units of alcohol.

That’s the way forward.

COVER: OUR DAILY ‘BREAD’, PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE SCHOONER, GATESHEAD, BY PETER SKELTON

I NEVER THOUGHT YOU COULD SPEND SO MUCH MONEY ON DRAINAGE – WHICH SADLY NONE OF YOU WILL EVER SEE PETRA WETZEL, WEST BREWERY

04 08 10 12

THE DAY THE RAINS CAME WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT? THE YEAR OF THE MONKEY WEAVING A GREAT TALE

14 26 28 30

THE PUB QUIZ FOR ANORAKS PUB PROFILE: THE OFFICE THE A-Z OF PUBS LAUGH AT FUN STUFF

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Photography: Peter Skelton

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NEWS

A FLOOD ALERT TO THE VALUE OF OUR PUBS

The nation watched day after day in horror as Storm Desmond brought torrential rain and devastating flooding to the North. Then the big clear-up began, as Alastair Gilmour reports It’s the silence that gets you. That and the smell of sewage. The quietness is interrupted only by the occasional clatter of yet another piece of furniture landing in a skip. Bang goes a chair, clang goes a radiator. And whirr go the dehumidifiers.

The horrendous floods of December and January have left their mark in homes and business across the North East, Cumbria, North Yorkshire and Southern Scotland, while our pubs and brewhouses have suffered enormously. Some might not even recover.

And what is left would bring tears to the hardest soul.

The Dyvels in Corbridge, Northumberland, is virtually derelict inside

after the Tyne burst its banks. Not far away, The Bridge End Inn at Ovingham has been stripped bare following the onslaught of four feet of filthy water from nearby Whittle Burn mixed with churnedup River Tyne.

Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth, Cumbria – out of action for a lengthy spell five years ago following major flooding – has managed to get back into production after just over a month of downtime.

Significantly, its first brew on January 22 was Cockerhoop.

Chris Baxter took up the lease on The Dyvels only in September last year to run it alongside the renowned Manor House Inn at Carterway Heads, County Durham.

“The Dyvels will be out of commission

Dr Syntax Inn

P Beer Garden

Bar Food

Function Children Room Welcome

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The Dyvels, Corbridge, top (photo Matthew Collings) and above, plus (left) a forlorn sight at The Bridge End Inn, Ovingham

for anywhere between three and six months,” he said. “We were devastated when we saw what was happening, but there was nothing we could do about it.

“It just shows the power of water. But we’re determined to get it back up and running.

“Everything will have to be completely refitted, but we want to keep its quirky nature – it’s quite a quirky pub.”

James and Irene Outterside celebrated 40 years as owners of The Bridge End Inn at Ovingham on November 21 and were completely overwhelmed by floodwater on December 5.

“We’ve had water coming over the road before but this was a bad one,” said James. “It was unprecedented – I think the last one like this was in 1771.

“It got to the back door about six o’clock in the evening, so we did all the things you have to do, but by 11pm we had to give up. Through the night all we could hear were glasses falling off shelves then in the morning came down to carnage.”

The floodwater came well above windowsill height – about four feet – contaminating the bar and lounge area.

“That’s when the adrenaline kicks in and you’ve just got to get on with it,” said James.

“Everything will have to be replaced and we’ll be closed for five to six months. The insurance company had to put tenders out for repair work which took seven weeks, so we’re two months in now and not really much further forward.”

Wherever you turn there’s bad news concerning pubs and water. Carlisle was among the worst affected areas, with about 2,000 homes and businesses flooded. Elsewhere in Cumbria, Appleby was completely overwhelmed, as were Kendal and Glenridding (for the fourth time). The Watermill at Ings (16 ales on tap

and an in-house microbrewery) reported: “In 25 years we have never had that sheer force of water.”

Geoff Mawdsley, owner of the Coledale Inn in Braithwaite described “a raging torrent going into the village”.

In York, the River Ouse rose more than four metres above its normal level while the River Foss hit record heights in urban areas.

York-based beer and pubs writer Nick Love said: “The Red Lion in Merchantgate is in a dreadful state. The Walmgate Alehouse and the Watergate Inn have been badly hit – as were The Lowther and the Kings Arms along the riverfront, while The Masons Arms will be shut for some time.”

An army of volunteers got down to clearing up the new Brew York brewery and taphouse which hadn’t even opened for business.

Nick Love said: “There’s a huge decrease in visitor numbers to York, so organisations like VisitYork and Make It To York are getting the message out that the city is very much open – so come and spend your money.”

A similar scheme in Cumbria invites people to go out to the pubs that remain open, contribute funds to the clean-up operation, and Drink Cumbria Dry. At Jennings’ brewery in Cockermouth, some of the original remedial work introduced after the 2009 floods enabled production to get going relatively quickly.

Richard Westwood, managing director of Marston’s Beer Company (Jennings’ owners), said: “The support we have had from our team and customers has been intrinsic in getting the brewery back into production.”

Everywhere, volunteers have turned out in their droves to help with the clear-up and make sure their favourite pubs are back in action as soon as possible.

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NEWS

Steamed mussels at The Rat Inn

GASTROS DO IT WITH GUSTO North East pubs have performed well in a national quest to find the 50 best gastropubs in the country. The Rat Inn at Anick, near Hexham, is the region’s top dog, coming in at number 13 (rising dramatically from last year’s 38). The Broad Chare in Newcastle took the number 28 slot, while not far away in 31st place is The Staith House in North Shields – while co-owner John Calton was awarded gastropub chef of the year. The Bridge Tavern in Newcastle – just over two years old – was a new entry in the competition (at number 49) organised by The Publican’s Morning Advertiser and sponsored by Estrella Damm.

Overall winner – for the second year in succession – was The Sportsman in Seasalter, Kent, a Michelin starred pub. So, competing on that level shows we’ve got some serious talent in our pub kitchens.

Never rains but pours. The scene at The Lowther in York But not all is co-operation and community spirit. The owners of the Stone Trough Inn, in Kirkham Bridge near Tadcaster have refused to sell beer brewed by Sam Smith’s after the company refused to allow a temporary footbridge to be built on its land following the collapse of the historic bridge over the River Wharfe.

They said that as a local business, they “couldn’t support a Yorkshire business that doesn’t support its local people”.

Tadcaster is also home to two other breweries – John Smith’s (Heineken) and Molson Coors.

Sam Smith’s argued that North Yorkshire County Council had failed to carry out proper maintenance and that the temporary bridge

was “a wasteful proposed public expenditure, a typical short-term PR based soundbite from central and local government”.

James Outterside summed up the frustration felt across the region by describing the effect that losing their local pub for a time will have on its community. He said: “The locals are devastated. I know it’s the thing to say these days that the pub is the hub, but it’s true here; it’s a real community centre for the village.w “For example, Harry, one of our real regulars, is 90 years old and he comes in every day for one pint and a bit crack – what’s he going to do?

“Our regulars don’t know what to do and I don’t either, I’m frustrated at not working. If this is an insight into retirement, I don’t like it.”

THE BRIDGE TAVERN BREW PUB & EATERY

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NEWS

FEBRUARY

WxY FORMULA IS A BIT OF A BEERY BEASTIE Northumberland has met New Zealand head-on, in not so much of a continental collision, but in a brewery collaboration that produced a one-off, multi-faceted beer.

Wylam head brewer Ben Wilkinson has been working with Stu McKinley, one half of The Yeastie Boys phenomenon (with Sam Possenniskie) that’s helping to elevate flavour profiles and production methods throughout the craft beer sector. Out the other end on this occasion came WxY XPIPA (Wylam crossed with Yeastie, equals Extra Pale IPA, 7.0% abv).

“We had a tremendous day brewing with Stu,” says Ben. “We have been massive fans of Yeastie Boys beers since they touched down in the UK for the first time at Craft Beer Calling in Newcastle in 2014.

“He’s over here with his family for a couple of years, so it was great to get the opportunity to do a collab.”

Ben reckons XPIPA was a difficult beer to formulate, using

unfamiliar and rare New Zealand hops like Nelson Sauvin, Rakau and the Australian Galaxy variety at different points in the process.

He says: “It’s quite daunting to brew with some of these guys but it reinforces that what you’re doing is absolutely right. But it was brilliant to do and we both learned a lot from each other.”

The use of rolled oats in XPIPA also came as a revelation to Ben and the Wylam team working on the pale ale – oats are normally used in stouts and porters and are ideal for adding a smooth, silky mouthfeel, balanced sweetness and creamy head retention which is a feature of the new beer.

“We knew what we wanted to do and gradually whittled it all down,” says Ben. XPIPA has masses of fruit flavour which gravitates towards dryness a couple of sips in and, with a marked difference between the cask and keg versions, this divided opinion at all levels on the beer’s launch at the Crown Posada in Newcastle.

MIXING WITH THE LOCALS

Gin and tonic lovers are being invited to create a Geordie version of their favourite cocktail. The historic Blackbird Inn in Ponteland celebrates its Northumberland roots by recommending Jack’s Gin – distilled in celebration of 19th Century Tyne Valley bootlegger Jack Cain – mixed with Fentiman’s tonic (Fentiman’s, of course, is based in Hexham).

As a garnish, what better than juniper berries as an alternative to a twist of lemon or lime? Juniper grows wild in Northumberland and although Cheers can’t guarantee the source of The Blackbird’s supply, the whole combination will certainly make you feel at home.

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NEWS

GO DOWN TO THE WOOD TODAY…

A fresh impetus, fired by customer curiosity and a demand for flavourled products has hoisted beers served from wooden casks to sought-after status around the region. Virtually every one of our 40-plus breweries is experimenting with styles and profiles, whether it’s a beer simply decanted into a wooden cask, or something specially formulated to mature for several weeks or months to marry (or divorce) aromas, flavours and mouthfeel.

“The Society for the Preservation of Beers from the Wood (SPBW) was established in December 1963, making it slightly older than the Campaign For Real Ale,” says Eric Larkham, newlyappointed publicity officer for the SPBW

North East branch which was formed in July 2014.

Members are gathering at Haltwhistle Comrades Club on Saturday February 6 to present the management with the SPBW North East branch Club of the Year award. Elsewhere, Oddfellows in North Shields was elected the society’s Pub of the Year with Durham Camra taking the Beer Festival award. Three Kings was Brewery of the Year, while the Beer of the Year title was shared between Wylam Jakehead IPA and Allendale Wolf.

“The North East Branch of the SPBW is active in the support of breweries which make good beer and venues which sell it, especially if there’s a hint of a wooden cask involved,” says Eric Larkham. “Meeting are held in

S I N C E

Just cask Hawkshead Brewery brewers get the last drop out

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NEWS

pubs and social or sports clubs everywhere from Berwick to Darlington. An interesting point to note is that wherever meetings are held, arrangements are made to supply at least one beer in a wooden cask and when possible, in nearby pubs so that a wooden pub crawl can be held.”

Pubs taking beers from the wood read like a Who’s Who of the region’s best – and include The Free Trade, Tannery, Tyne Bar, Cumberland Arms and Lady Grey’s in Newcastle; the Victoria and Old Elm Tree in Durham; Oddfellows and Low Lights Tavern, North Shields; Quaker House, Darlington; Curfew and The Pilot, Berwick, and The Boathouse in Wylam.

The North East branch even hosted a national SPBW weekend late last year with members arriving from every corner of the UK to celebrate and sample beer from pubs and breweries in Newcastle and along the Tyne Valley.

“The style is becoming very, very popular,” says Eric. “People see it as something with tradition.

The Gosforth Hotel put two wooden casks on the bar one day at 12noon and it was all gone by 10pm. The County – also in Gosforth – put on a new woodaged beer from Wylam which lasted nine hours. Considering the pub normally has up to 12 ales on offer, it’s quite something.”

Cumbria-based Hawkshead Brewery operates an annual project of ageing beer in wood; the most recent release being No5 (Brodie’s Prime Export 8.5% aged in Red Burgundy casks).

The brewery also uses oak casks to age Wild Wheat (4.8% abv), its brett-fermented spiced wheat beer.

Turning the clock back just might be a step forward with the likes of young breweries with imagination such as Box Social and Almasty taking beer from the wood not only to heart but to another level. It’s part of the future, it’s guaranteed to sell well – so there’s no need to “touch wood”. *For further information, contact SPBW North East chairman robinshacklock@yahoo.co.uk

BREWERY FLOATS ON THE DOCK EXCHANGE

When Stables Brewery master brewer John Taylor saw how the grounds at Beamish Hall Hotel, County Durham, had flooded recently he decided there was only one way to get beer out of the microbrewery that’s attached to the historic building (formerly the family home of Sir Robert – “Bonny Bobby” –Shaftoe).

The ever-inventive John constructed a KonTiki style raft using mini-casks as floats, lashing them to a wooden base. A mast, “wheelhouse” and red pennant completed the job. An admiral effort, so to speak.

Enjoy a freshly cooked and locally sourced meal at the newly refurbished Twice Brewed on Hadrian’s Wall. With a great selection of real ales, wines, draught and bottled beers plus 3 fireplaces to warm you up after a day on The Wall.

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TYNE IDOLS and CHEERS have teamed up to bring you monthly REAL ALE MYSTERY TOURS aboard our retro double decker.

Each month we’ll take you to a different local brewery followed by ale tasting in award-winning real ale pubs along the way, accompanied by ‘expert’ special guests!

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NEWS

MONKEY BUSINESS FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS

The Chinese New Year begins on Monday February 8 and brings with it a fortnight of celebrations across the world. The following 12 months commemorates the Year of the Monkey, as dictated by the Chinese calendar (a lunar one, so it’s a moveable feast) which continues a cycle of 12 years, each one named after an animal.

It’s a time when ancestral spirits are celebrated, family unity is honoured and a happy future is anticipated. Strict customs are adhered to and superstition is rife, such as sweeping the floor before the big day else good fortune for the coming year be brushed aside, and the wearing of red which symbolises sunshine and brightness.

The Chinese believe the animal ruling the year in which a person is born has a profound influence on personality, saying: “This is the animal that hides in your heart”.

Although “monkeys” are considered to be witty and intelligent and have magnetic personalities, for people born in a monkey year (1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004), 2016 is considered one to be wary of. Chinese horoscopes urge

monkeys to be financially vigilant as events can quickly change – plus to think twice before making business and personal decisions.

The Chinese New Year can fall anywhere between late January and the middle of February. Legend has it that the Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to come to him before he departed from Earth. Only 12 came to bid him farewell and, as a reward, he named a year after each one in the order they arrived – Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig. So, let’s celebrate The Monkey Bar in Newcastle, a nickname for the Old Market Lane Hotel which dates from around 1850 – and a moniker that stuck.

Apparently the pub, now owned by the Malhotra Group, was a popular venue for the Irish bricklayers who helped build much of Victorian Newcastle and also worked on the construction of the Tyne Bridge. Legend has it that they used to leave their hods – or “monkeys” – in the passageway as security towards the bar tab that they would run up. It was a case of “no monkey, no work, no money, no beer”. But if you believe monkey business like that…

NEWS

RUBY GLOW EXCITES LOCAL CAMRA BRANCH Members of the Tyneside & Northumberland branch of the Campaign For Real Ale (Camra) have finished casting their votes for Pub of the Year, Club of the Year and Cider Pub of the Year in four areas: North Northumberland, South East Northumberland, South West Northumberland and Tyneside.

Members are also surveying pubs for inclusion in the Good Beer Guide 2017 and getting down to planning the annual Newcastle Beer & Cider Festival (below) – celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. A call has gone out for volunteers who are available between Sunday April 3 to Sunday

April 10 for a wide range of tasks which don’t all have to involve muscle-work or tending the bar.

Before that, however, it’s the branch agm on Monday March 21 (7.30pm) at the Chillingham, Heaton, Newcastle, where nominations are invited for the posts of chairman, secretary treasurer, pubs officer, membership secretary and public affairs officer.

The Tyneside & Northumberland branch now has more than 1,700 members and is home to nearly 40 breweries. Regular meetings and trips out are a big part of the social calendar.

All details: www.cannybevvy.co.uk

CHEERS ON THE MOVE

Newcastle Beer Festival photo by Colin Anderson

A terrific photo winged its way from Thailand, courtesy of former North East publican Richard Costello.

“I thought you might be interested to see what I found to read at the International Library, Khao Kho, Phetchabun, about 400 kilometres north of Bangkok,” he writes.

Wonderful. This sort of reader interaction is hugely encouraging for Team Cheers, so keep it coming (alastair@cheersnortheast.co.uk).

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NEWS

A STITCH IN TIME SAVES 950 Next time you’re in a Wetherspoons pub, look down at the floor coverings. Every one of the 950-strong chain has a different carpet. There is no corporate “one design fits all” system, despite that being the easier, cheaper option.

This has been highlighted by London-based Tumblr blogger Kit Caless who has taken it upon himself to document every one of them. Every Axminster carpet is unique to that particular pub, made from scratch and ornately patterned.

“The blog is excellent for us,” says Jon Randall, JD Wetherspoon head of acquistions. “Over the years we haven’t kept a very good record of what carpets went where.”

Wetherspoon pubs generally take a local name with ideas from the building itself (perhaps a former fire station or a bank) incorporated into the interior design.

“Part of that would be the carpets,” says Jon Randall, who reckons each one costs between £20,000 and £30,000 each.

“Everyone just uses the pre-made stuff which is about half the price.

“I quite like one of our pubs in London, The Cross Keys, which has gold keys on a blue background because it’s obvious that’s unique to the pub.”

He also admits to liking the carpets in the William Rufus in Carlisle and the William Stead in Darlington. The Britannia in Plymouth comes with a wavepatterned carpet, while The Wallaw in Blyth, Northumberland, celebrates the Art-Deco decadence that the former cinema was renowned for.

Kit Caless began his blog after reading a book in which the hero uncovers that a bland hotel chain’s corporate art contains subliminal messages. It might be time for our imaginations to run riot.

The Wallaw in Blyth, above (photo Dave Webb), The Harry Clasper, Whickham, Gateshead, below, and the William Rufus, Carlisle

QUOTE “I ATTENDED ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS FOR A WHILE. I STILL DRANK, BUT UNDER A DIFFERENT NAME.” GEORGE BEST

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QUIZ NIGHT

Garrincha, left, sets off on a typical mazy dribble

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The Steamboat SUNDERLAND & SOUTH TYNESIDE CAMRA PUB OF THE YEAR 2015 DOG

FRIENDLY

PUB

27 MILL DAM, SOUTH SHIELDS, NE33 1EQ

(0191) 454 0134

A warm welcome to customers old and new Bringing a new look, with new menus, a new chef and a new pub experience to Seaton Delaval. Classic Menu served 6 days a week.

Sunday Lunch @ The Hastings 1 Course £6.95 2 courses £9.45 3 courses £11.45 Live Music every Friday & Sunday.

OPENING TIMES: Monday to Thursday: 11.00 - 23.30 Friday & Saturday: 11.00 - 00.30 | Sunday: 12.00 - 23.30

Wheatridge Row Seaton Delaval Northumberland NE25 0QH Tel: 0191 2376868 14 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

WEAR YOUR ANORAK WITH PRIDE Which team won the Zenith Data Cup in 1990? Who headed Angel & The Snake? Do you know your Sholas from your Zolas and the total number of Ramones?

Even if you have to guess, there’s a different style of pub quiz to suit you and feed your inner trivia geek. Jon “Samso” Sams has issued a challenge to visit Gateshead’s Central Bar for the North East’s longest running football quiz on Saturday February 6 when teams of one to six members compete to prove they’re the biggest bunch of football anoraks in the region.

And music anoraks (anoraks being a good thing, by the way) can show off what they know or don’t know at The Auld Rockers Quiz at The Schooner, Gateshead, on the first Thursday of every month.

The football questions are researched, written and presented by football fanatic Samso. At what other quiz would you win a round of drinks by guessing how old Brazilian winger Garrincha was when he lost his virginity to a goat?

Similarly with The Auld Rockers – Schooner owner Dave Campbell researches, writes and presents brain teasers that could involve Half Man Half Biscuit or Tonto’s Expanding Headband.

“It does what it says on the tin,” says Dave. “It’s a free quiz and unashamedly anal. It’s for ‘sad auld

Mojo-reading musos’ who haven’t bought a record since that new beat combo Nirvana last put out a long player.”

At Samso’s Footy Quiz – a game of two halves – the first rounds consist of picture and general knowledge while the second half is more specific and could be World Cup-related (who is the top scorer in World Cup history?) or about South American transfer records.

The Schooner’s Auld Rockers is six rounds of pictures (albums and bands), a music intro round, and four lots of questions from the 1960s to the early 1990s.

Dave Campbell says: “As well as selling a few more pints on the Thursday it’s good fun, a great atmosphere, and it encourages really good banter.”

The answers: Chelsea beat Middlesbrough 1-0 in the 1990 Zenith data Cup final. Angel & The Snake became Blondie (Debbie Harry). There were seven recording Ramones. Garrincha was 12 years old. Miroslav Klose (Germany) is the World Cup’s top scorer. *Samso’s Footy Quiz, The Central, Gateshead, Saturday February 6, 8pm (www. samsosfootyquiz.co.uk) *The next Auld Rockers Quiz at The Schooner, Gateshead, is on Thursday March 3, 8.30pm (www.theschooner.co.uk)

CULTURE

COULD I HAVE A PAINT OF BASS PLEASE? A Bar at the Folies-Bergère (1882) by Edouard Manet was the Impressionist painter’s last major painting and, like some 40 Picasso artworks, includes Bass Pale Ale either as a main feature or inserted discretely to make a statement.

The Folies-Bergère was Paris’s first music hall with – according to a magazine – an atmosphere of “unmixed joy” where everyone spoke “the language of pleasure”. The poet Maupassant wrote that the barmaids were “vendors of drink and of love”.

Manet knew the FoliesBergère well. He made preparatory sketches on site, but the final painting was executed in his studio. It’s a complex work with barmaid Suzon’s reflection in the mirror behind showing her facing a customer, rather than looking bored as at first sight.

The quickly-sketched crowds – also in the mirror – convey the bustle of the bar.

The Bass logo was the UK’s first trademark

PUB NAMES A-Z: THE ANGEL

on January 1 1876, when the Trade Mark Registration Act came into effect. An employee had to spend his New Year’s Eve waiting in the cold outside the registration office to claim the first two trademarks for the Bass red triangle and red diamond logos.

A Bar at the Folies-Bergère (with Manet’s signature on the bottom-left wine label) is on show at The Courtauld Gallery, London.

Bottles of Bass (bottom left and right)

A Represented here by The Angel Inn at Corbridge, Northumberland. The Angel is a common pub name in use since the Middle Ages that reflects the connection between religious establishments and travellers’ hostels. The Corbridge pub is often regarded as having been built in 1726 as a coaching inn; however, its origins go back to the 1200s. We’ll be presenting a fascinating history of the pub in the March issue of Cheers.

More than just a Wine Shop Over 450 handpicked wines, premium spirits and beers Quality cheeses, meats and condiments to eat in or take away 18 new wines each month, by the glass, to drink at our tables Regular tastings with world class wine makers Gifts, hampers and gift wrapping for every occasion Tue/Wed 12-7pm, Thur 12-8pm, Fri 10-8pm, Sat 10-7pm and Sun 12-5pm | 3a Elmfield Rd, Gosforth, NE3 4AY T: 0191 2131818, e: info@carruthersandkent.com, www.carruthersandkent.com

@candkwines www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 15

DRINKING LIMITS

ONE IS THE LONELIEST NUMBER We’re now warned that there is no safe drinking level. But Alastair Gilmour believes it’s time to separate beer and wine from alcohol In recent months we’ve been advised to avoid bacon, sausages and ham because cured and processed meats have been placed in the same cancer-risk category as asbestos, arsenic and tobacco.

Studies in the US have concluded that potatoes can cause diabetes in pregnant women, while other new research shows prolonged high intakes of acrylamide – a chemical found in crisps, chips, bread, biscuits, crackers and breakfast cereals – could cause nerve damage, affect male fertility, and trigger cancer.

Now comes a government edict advising men to drink no more than seven pints of beer a week – the same as the maximum limit for women. The first new drinking guidelines to be released by the UK’s chief medical officers for 20 years also advise there is no safe level of drinking for either sex, and issued a stark warning that any amount of alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing a range of cancers, particularly breast cancer.

The new 14-unit recommended maximum is equivalent to a little more than nine small 125ml glasses of wine, 14 single measures of spirits, or seven pints of lager or beer. For women the limit is unchanged, but for men it drops from 21 units.

Is it little wonder we despair at research that will probably be turned on its head this time next year?

Will a day starting with a bowl of cereal then bacon and sausage sandwiches followed by pie and chips at lunchtime washed down with a couple of pints of ale be considered foolhardy – or even a suicide attempt?

16 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

But hang on a minute. It’s widely accepted that the cereal content of beer (known as “liquid bread” for the past 6,000 years) makes it a good source of vitamins, especially vitamins B12, B6 and folate, a substance shown to have an important role in protecting against heart disease, strokes and cancer.

As heart disease and strokes are the UK’s major killers, responsible for more than 40% of deaths, increasing the levels of folate in the diet is an important public health issue.

And wine has been long renowned for its qualities in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Researchers have found that a compound called resveratrol present in red wine has the potential to kill the damaged cells that can lead to certain cancers.

Resveratrol also helps prevent age-related memory decline and suppresses the molecules in the blood that interfere with the production of insulin, thus helping us to live longer and enjoy healthier lives.

So, is there some way of separating beer and wine (and spirits) from alcohol in these medical “experts’” mindsets? We don’t sit in a pub and drink pure alcohol, unless we down glass after glass of neat vodka; we sup glasses of beer and wine and the occasional short. Surely that’s good for the soul and adds to our wellbeing through sociability, relaxation, conversation and laughter.

Having a strong social network like pub regulars enjoy significantly improves happiness and overall health. The more people you know, and the

DRINKING LIMITS

One pint, or two units of alcohol, is the new recommended limit.

It’s a dog’s life: Photo by Peter Skelton at The Frank gets ready to enjoy his bowl of Woof beer Schooner, Gateshead Right: Finley is thinking, “Hurry up with that bottle opener”.

more often you see them, the better you feel, and the healthier you are; no argument.

However, Dame Sally Davies, the chief medical officer for England, said: “Drinking any level of alcohol regularly carries a health risk for anyone, but if men and women limit their intake to no more than 14 units a week it keeps the risk of illness like cancer and liver disease low.”

The UK’s recommended limit for men is now one of the lowest among countries that issue guidance for an appropriate intake of beer, wine and spirits and makes it one of only a handful of countries to issue identical advice for both sexes.

The 14-unit figure is based at a level expected to cause an overall lifetime risk of death due to alcohol of approximately 1%, according to the independent advisory group which formulated it.

However, it cautioned that “there is little evidence regarding the impact of any guidelines in changing health behaviours”.

Steve Gibbs from Durham Brewery said: “I don’t want to labour the point, but the new alcohol ‘safe’ units of just 14 per week for everyone is dogmatic, prescriptive and out of line with Europe and the world.

“We may be ahead of the pack with this, but the last ten years has given us big regulation, political correctness, increased alcohol taxation, and guess what – the bulldogs of Europe laid on their backs for their tummies to be rubbed.

“The new guidelines are about alcohol. For centuries, beer was the temperance drink for being low in alcohol. Beer is also a good supplement to diet – being made from barley it has historically been linked to bread and the staff of life.

Beer is much more than alcohol and many modern studies will support this. It contains B vitamins. One pint can provide 10% to 20% of the daily requirements of riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine and folate.

Silicate in beer is linked to a reduced risk of osteoporosis and fibre can help the functioning of the large intestine, can help lower cholesterol in the blood serum, and protect against coronary heart disease.

It’s also documented that beer reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney stones and Parkinsons disease. Just don’t overdo it.”

As for the latest guidelines; where do the figures come from? Plucked out of the air to frighten us or to tick health department boxes?

The Brewers’ Journal of October 1939 calculated that a barrel of beer (36 gallons) had the equivalent food value of 10lb of ribs of beef, 8lb of shoulder of mutton, 4lb of cheese, 20lb of potatoes, 1lb of rump steak, 3lb of rabbit, 3lb of plaice, 8lb of bread, 3lb of butter, 6lb of chicken and 19 eggs.

The report stressed: “We have had these figures checked by a chartered accountant.” Perhaps we should get accountants to work on safe drinking levels. Or, recalling how people like them triggered the global financial crisis in 2008 and the way we’re all still paying for it, perhaps not. www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 17

PUB NEWS

TWO PINTS PLEASE. OVER. WILCO Seafaring Northumberland hoteliers Jane and Mac McHugh are backing a community nautical project and are aiming to bring residential-based skippering courses to the village.

The couple, who have run the 18th Century Red Lion in Alnmouth since 2003, have subsidised a VHF handheld ship-to shore-radio for the Pride of Aln, a skiff built by Alnmouth Rowing as part of a scheme to involve more people in coastal rowing.

Jane, who is currently studying for her coastal skippers’ qualification, said: “VHF radios are used to call the coastguard in the event of problems, but it was also important that Alnmouth Rowing could remain in radio contact with the skiff while it is in use.

“The coastguard recommends that mobiles shouldn’t be used at sea for the simple reason that a signal is not always reliable. Both Mac and I are keen sailors and we wanted to give

something back to the community and this was an ideal way to help the project.”

Alnmouth, along with Amble and Blyth, is one of five places between the Tyne and the Forth to construct its own skiff to encourage more people to try the activity. More than 50 local people of all ages were involved in the project and the boat was officially launched a year ago.

However, there were only sufficient funds for one VHF radio, which is housed in the skiff. For safety purposes, it was essential to base a second radio on land to ensure that those using the boat could communicate directly with their shipmates on the shore.

Jane and Mac’s next aim is to bring specialist residential coastal skipper courses to The Red Lion.

“Alnmouth is the perfect place for this, thanks to its estuary and active boating scene,” says Jane.

* Breakfast * Lunches * Evening Meals * Live Music & Entertainment * Functions

Signal box: Mac and Jane McHugh with the new radio

The Adam & Eve

* Special Offers * Games Room *

Station Road Open Mon - Fri 8am Low Prudhoe Sat - 10am Sun - 12pm Northumberland NE42 6NP

*Children’s Outdoor Play Area *

www.TheAdamPrudhoe.com

* Real Ales * Extensive Drinks Menu * * Cocktails * Late Night Snack Menu *

18 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

PUB NEWS

FUNDRAISERS MAKING PLANS FOR NIGEL Just over a year ago, history teacher Nigel Nattress was outgoing, active and adventurous.

He loved nothing better than spending time with his children, Florence, Jacob, Sam and Harry, and regularly meeting friends at his favourite pub, The Grey Horse on Sherburn Terrace, Consett.

Then he started feeling unwell and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Medication should have helped his situation, but he continued to deteriorate at an alarming rate. Pub regulars rallied round and organised a sponsored walk, beer belly run and iron man challenge which raised more than £5,500 for Parkinson’s UK. “The community spirit in The Grey Horse is amazing,” says pub regular Michelle Simpson. “But we are now all asking for more direct help for Nigel as he has actually been misdiagnosed. It has been confirmed that he has an aggressive form of Motor Neurone Disease.

“He is no longer able to communicate without the aid of a tablet PC; he is unable to walk unaided and struggles with eating and drinking, both of which lead to regular bouts of choking.”

The Grey Horse continues to raise funds – recently nearly £400 from a Christmas hamper raffle – towards converting his house to allow him to move around more easily, plus a powered neuro wheelchair and armchair and specialist surgical bed, all of which totals some £30,000. Then there are care and respite costs.

Grey Horse manager Kath Croft, plus all staff and regulars have dedicated all their fundraising activities to Nigel. She said: “Nigel is an amazing man and we’re proud to help raise funds for this worthy cause.”

Cheers readers are urged to join them.

Nigel’s MND Support appeal, visit www.thegreyhorse.co.uk

We thought you might prefer a photo of the Chuckle Brothers to a chuckleberry

CHUCKLEBERRY, GOOSEBERRY, REDCURRANT, OR JOSTABERRY?

New production from Hawkshead Brewery, Cumbria, includes versions of beers that first saw the light in 2015 – Chuckleberry Sour and Chocolate & Tonka Bean Imperial Porter. Chuckleberry Sour (already ageing on the berries which are a cross between a gooseberry a blackcurrant and a jostaberry) is soured using a technique head brewer Matt Clarke developed, using lactobacillus from natural yogurt. The live culture gives a refreshing tart character, the perfect base to further mature the Chuckleberries. www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 19

PUB NEWS

HEAD OF STEAM COUNTS IN NUMBER SIX Camerons Brewery has rolled out its Head of Steam pub brand to Teesside with the opening of a new venue on Norton High Street. Located at the site of the brewery’s previously tenantedrun Perry’s, The Head of Steam is the sixth venue in the Camerons premium cask and craft brand.

Chris Soley, director and general manager of Camerons said: “Norton has established itself as one of Teesside’s most exciting new areas for food and drink and it is the perfect fit for our Head

of Steam brand. We feel the pub will complement the other fantastic bars and restaurants in Norton and attract more customers to the area.”

Norton’s Head of Steam offers five cask ales with a focus on local breweries, alongside 14 keg beers and lagers, five of which will rotate to offer customers a diverse range of world beers. The fridges have a focus on Belgian Trappist bottled beers as well as a selection of the newest American craft ales.

A new food menu is being introduced.

NEW APPOINTMENTS Heineken’s UK arm has created a new managing director role in charge of its on-trade Star Pubs & Bars business. Lawson Mountstevens, currently managing director on-trade, has been appointed to the new job.

He will continue to report to David

Forde, UK managing director. Meanwhile, Heineken UK has also created a new on-trade director role, which will be filled by Chris Jowsey, currently trading director for Star Pubs and Bars and formerly at Scottish & Newcastle in the North East.

THE OFFICE MORPETH’S REAL ALE & CIDER HOUSE ACTON ALES BREWERY TAP

NO MUSIC JUST GREAT BEER

The Old Toll House, Castle Square, Morpeth OPENING TIMES: MON TO SUN 17.00 TO 22.30 20 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

Small batch Gin and Vodka from the North East’s first craft distillery Available from all good stockists or from www.durhamdistillery.co.uk

www.durhamdistillery.co.uk info@durhamdistillery.co.uk

Q&A

WE SKA THE QUESTIONS Will Cox from the Number Twenty-2 pub in Darlington has been talking to the region’s gin producers to see if they actually live up to their hashtags of #Craftgin, #Artisan or #TheNextBigThing.

His first Ginterview is with Luke Smith of Poetic License Bar at Roker, Sunderland. The bar’s 400-litre, small-batch copper still (called Gracie) produces Old Tom Gin (41.6% abv), pictured right, and Northern Dry Gin (43.2% abv), both of which include botanicals such as Persian lime and Indonesian Copee peppercorns.

Q: Hi Luke, do you have a job title?

A: The Distiller.

Q: Do you have any nicknames around the distillery?

A: The Yeti – I’m a six foot four big guy.

Q: H ow did you get into distilling gin as a career?

A: I was doing it at home and bringing it in to the lads at Sonnet 43 Brew House at Coxhoe near Durham where I was working in sales and helping out in the brewery – making tea, hosing down tanks, etc.

Q: W hy distilling? Is it just trendy?

A: I t’s all about the art and variation, where small changes can totally change the gin, for better or worse. The process evolves so quickly as there is no wait for fermentation like brewing beer.

It’s all very exciting.

Q: H ow do you choose the botanicals for your gin?

A: I made 290 small jars of infused vodka, each with a different botanical, and it was then a

process of adding different combinations of them to a juniper and coriander base – all done a syringe-full at a time. I ended up falling in love with a few of those botanicals.

Q: What music would be playing if you were distilling right now?

A: At the moment I’m bottling tiny bottles of Graceful Vodka and I’m playing a whole load of ska and reggae.

QUALITY CASK ALES FROM £2.20 Osborne Rd, Jesmond 0191 240 2811

Holburn Lane, Ryton 0191 413 9517

Pilgrim Street, Newcastle 0191 232 0251 Farringdon Rd, Cullercoats 0191 253 5050

Great North Rd, Gosforth 0191 255 2100 www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 21

22 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

BREWERIES ROUND-UP

STUDENT BREWERS HEADING NEW RESEARCH

The Institute for Sustainability has granted funding to Newcastle University’s microbrewery, Stu Brew, to look into sustainable brewing.

Researchers in the School of Chemical Engineering & Advanced Materials will lead a number of studies in areas from waste disposal to sustainable resource use, particularly the best use of spent grains, hops and yeast.

Outcomes from the project could benefit regional microbreweries who have expressed interest in the research.

Stu Brew is a student-led green social enterprise with its beers brewed, marketed and sold by students. It is the first, and so far only, student-run brewery in Europe. Its ales are served in bars and pubs on campus and around Newcastle. After the first 12 months of operation, four Stu Brew students have gained jobs in the brewing industry with the likes oTf BrewDog and Heineken.

Sharon Joyce, a lecturer in the School of Chemical Engineering & Advanced Materials, says: “Smaller businesses like microbreweries may not have the resource or are not in the best position to practice

Stu Brew students at Newcastle University sustainability. Stu Brew demonstrates that you can do sustainability at a small scale and if replicated throughout the craft beer industry, could lead to a positive impact for businesses and the environment.”

Stu Brew closely monitors energy and water usage, and has a highly energy efficient hot water and cooling system which re-uses hot water.

Along with spent barley grains and hops, breweries also produce large amounts of yeast slurry that

are often disposed of down the drain. Creating an animal feed from the yeast, such as for pigs, provides a sustainable solution to the waste issue.

In collaboration with researchers at the University of Kassel in Germany, the team will test a prototype wet brewery waste dryer they’ve developed and optimise it for brewery wastes. Researchers will also look into using waste products for anaerobic digestion and gasification.

WEST TAKES A BIG STEP UP NORTH

SHUGGY GETS A FORTIFYING BOOST

A note from West Brewery owner Petra Wetzel outlines the Glasgow-based brewery’s plans for 2016. And big they are with a whole, brand-spanking new brewery producing its first beer this month. West’s beers are permanent fixtures in many North East bars and German-born Petra also invites us to celebrate its tenth anniversary in March in appropriate fashion.

“West has grown from a small brewpub in the East End of Glasgow to a proud independent family brewery with ambitions to serving the best Scottish lagers anywhere,”

Cullercoats Brewery has begun 2016 with a new beer – actually, a new series of beers. Its Fortified Series harks back to an 18th Century method of producing beer where a very strong beer (a stock ale, typically 6.0%-8.0% abv) was brewed first and allowed to mature for several months then used to blend with weaker, newly-brewed beer.

This creates a mid-strength beer which benefits from the old ale flavours that can only be achieved in a high gravity, warm fermentation, plus the fresh hoppy aromas delivered by the newly-brewed beer.

The Belgian lambic beer gueuze is similarly made by blending young (one year-old) and old (two to three year-old) lambics, which is then bottled for a second fermentation. Because the young lambics are not fully fermented, the blended beer contains fermentable sugars which allow a second fermentation to occur.

Cullercoats Brewery co-owner Anna Scantlebury says: “We have brewed a stock ale at 7.3% abv named Fortification, and over the coming months we will be blending this with different beers to produce.

“A new beast called Fortified Shuggy Boat Blonde is bursting with flavour and if you’re lucky you’ll be able to taste this alongside the regular beer and Fortification itself – mummy, daddy, and baby beer, as it were.”

Look out for this line-up at a special fortified beer and food evening on April 21 at Bierrex, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle.

says Petra (who comes with the strapline, Glasgow Heart With German Head).

“It’s just as well that I really love my job.

The year 2015 was busy and often frustrating, but luckily it now feels like we are finally on the home stretch.

“I never thought you could spend so much money on drainage – which sadly none of you will ever see when you come on a tour of the big new plant. I may just pee my metaphorical pants when it happens.”

West beers can be enjoyed in DatBar, the Bridge Tavern and Hotel du Vin & Bistro in Newcastle, among others.

Petra Wetzel pictured at Hotel du Vin, Newcastle

www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 23

PUB NEWS

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRED ON PUB

Twice Brewed Inn, standing sentry on the B6318 Military Road near Bardon Mill in Northumberland, found itself bursting at the seams recently. It’s not an unusual scenario for such a popular pub, particularly since it reopened in December following extensive refurbishment, but as duty manager Matthew Brown reports, it was full of people stranded because of flooding.

Twice Brewed itself wasn’t affected by the deluge but Carlisle and most of Cumbria were cut off, so travellers sought refuge until they thought out what to do next.

“We couldn’t even offer them overnight accommodation because the rooms were full,” says Matthew. “We became a transport information centre and helped people plot their routes.”

The pub’s dining room and further en-suite bedrooms are next on the re-build list, scheduled for the regular army of walkers eager to explore Hadrian’s Wall Country.

“We’re really looking forward to the season starting,” says Matthew.

NEW HOURS MEAN A BETTER BALANCE FOR ALL The owners of the award-winning Feathers Inn at Hedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, Northumberland, have decided to reduce their working week – to improve staff working conditions and customer experience. Rhian and Helen Cradock say the decision to open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday and for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday – instead of a sevenday operation for both sessions – will allow them the time to be more creative in what they do in the kitchen and keep standards high there and in the rest of the pub.

Their two young children will also reap the benefit too.

They are following the lead set by chefs such as Michel Roux Jr who similarly switched his London restaurant, Le Gavroche, to a five-day operation in order to improve staff hours and welfare and to enjoy a

better work-life balance.

Rhian told The Hexham Courant: “My intention has always been to serve the finest food with local produce. When people eat here they know my hand is behind every dish, from creation to service.

“We’re frequently so busy here it’s often difficult to get uninterrupted time to just focus on development.”

Thinking time: Rhian Cradock, The Feathers Inn

New luxury bar for private hire 6 Real Ales always on tap. FOOD SERVED DAILY Full English served from 6am Monday - Friday in C C Hudsons

Tel: 0191 2616611

Grand Central Station, Neville St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DG www.centurion-newcastle.com 24 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

NEWS

Gigs ’N’ Festivals What’s on around the region

FEBRUARY 25-27 STOCKTON ALE & ARTY BEER FESTIVAL

ARC Art Centre, Dovecot Street, Stockton TS18 1LL. With 80-plus ales, cider and perry.

Open: 11am-5pm and 6.30pm-11pm each day. Live entertainment from Geordie Rat Pack (Thursday, Catch 22 Comedy Night (Friday) and Special Brew (Saturday). Food available at all sessions. www.clevelandcamra.org.uk Tickets from ARC’s box office in person, by phone 01642 525199, or via www.arconline.co.uk

FEBRUARY 26-28 ADVINTAGE WINE WEEKEND

Gilsland Hotel, Cumbria CA8 7AR End the winter blues with two nights’ DBB, wine tasting and wine games, qualified wine tutor and quiz master, £125pp.

Visit www.Advintagewine.co.uk or tel Suzanne Lock 0191 253 2979 for details.

MARCH 25-28 EASTER BEER FESTIVAL

Surtees Arms and Yard of Ale Brewery, Chilton Lane, Ferryhill, County Durham DL17 0DH The award-winning pub features beer, music and food on a grand scale – and the Easter Beer Festival is no different.

Tel: 01740 655724 for details.

MARCH 25-28 SCOTTISH BEER & FOOD FESTIVAL

The Feathers Inn, Hedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, Northumberland NE43 7SW Over 20 cask ales from Scotland’s amazing craft brewers, including Orkney, Black Wolf and Loch Ness. All things Scottish, featuring awesome barbecue, Saturday farmers’ market and legendary Hedley barrel race on Bank Holiday Monday. www.thefeathers.net Tel: 01661 843607.

Real Ales styled on a Theakstons theme with rotating Guest Ales. Served alongside a wide range of Beers, Wines & Spirits • Karaoke Fortnightly • Motorcycle Meets alternate Tuesdays • Live Music • Beer Garden • Traditional Menu • Live BT Sports • Large Car Park OPENING TIMES Mon - Sun 12pm - 23pm Sun Lunch - 12pm - 3pm Restaurant Monday - Saturday 12.00 pm - 8pm

Telephone: 01670 813 345

THE WHITE SWAN (OVINGHAM) Only a 2 minute walk from Prudhoe train station!

Open every day from 12 noon REAL ALES ON TAP NEW Menu - food served everyday - Daily Specials Board Traditional Sunday Lunch 12 noon - 5 pm Beer Garden with childrens play area - Families & cyclists welcome - Dog friendly QUIZ NIGHT EVERY TUESDAY - starts 9.15 pm free supper!

ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTS February: Sat 6th - TBC • Mon 8th - Psychic Evening Fri 12th - The Graduates • Thurs 18th - Buskers Sat 20th - Raw Spirit • Sat 27th - Ask Ruby Feb 13th - Valentines Meal with John Garrimore singing songs from the Rat Pack and Michael Buble

STAND UP FOR DRINKING WINE

A 40-year study by teams at Harvard and the University of East Anglia has found that middle-aged men who drank and ate foodstuffs such as red wine, berries and citrus fruits that are rich in flavonoids were 10% less likely to develop erectile dysfunction.

Plant-based drinks such as wine and tea contain high levels of flavonoids, as do fruits, vegetables and herbs, while a flavonoid known as anthocyanins – present in blueberries, cherries, blackberries, radishes, blackcurrants and citrus fruits – were shown to be particularly beneficial. More than 50,000 men were included in the study that collected data every four years.

Main Road, Ovingham, Northumberland, NE42 6AG Tel: 01661 833 188 | www.whiteswan-ovingham.co.uk www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 25

PUB PROFILE

PUB PROFILE THE OFFICE, MORPETH

Here to stay and thriving One of the new breed of micropubs that have sprung up over the past five years, all with tiny premises and great beer. The Office’s capacity is 32, so we’re talking “large kitchen”. It opens weekdays at 5pm, so here’s a scenario: “Hello pet, I’m in The Office but I won’t be long… you too darling… you too.” Dialling tone. “Yes!” The Office is the former Old Toll House, a Grade II-listed building that Paul and Andrea Johnson had to “jump through hoops” to convert from its former use as a sweetie shop (which lay vacant for 18 months). Before that, it had been many things, icluding a fire station. It opened in November 2014 following two months of planning applications and appeals (plus a wee bit of local controversy). Never mind, it’s here and it’s thriving. “We got massive support from local ale lovers,” says Andrea. It has also become part of Morpeth’s discerning drinkers’ circuit.

Paul and Andrea are also looking to create a similar microbub in Felton, Northumberland. The Fox’s Den is earmarked for the cellar of the Running Fox artisan bakers.

OWNERS: Andrea and Paul Johnson WHERE IS IT? The Office, Castle Square, Morpeth, Northumberland N61 1YB. Tel: 07707 703 182.

Web: www.facebook.com/The-OfficeMorpeth-760120064053942/ OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri 5pm-10.30pm Saturday and Sunday: 12noon-10.30pm 26 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

THE DÉCOR

Church pew seating came from St Aiden’s Church at Stobhill – apparently, a member of its bellringers’ society said: “I’ve got just the thing for you”. The counter was salvaged from The Windmill pub in Blyth, which had closed down but had not escaped the notice of a regular.

Local artist’s works – for sale – decorate the walls and the plan is to attract much more. Originals oil paintings by Ivan Webley are rather fetching. The pub is developing organically and customers donate bits and pieces to decorate the place, such as a Royal Navy cap and good luck charms from all over the world.

THE BEER

Five ales, two local craft keg beers, a cider fridge and four national keg beers – with another handpull planned. Paul Johnson runs Acton Ales, so bring on Golden Cocker (4.1% abv); Clockwork Orange Stout (4.7% abv); Seahouses Gold & Light (4.2% abv), and Bamburgh (4.0% abv), with Full Mash Wheat Beer (4.2% abv) a visitor. Wylam Jakehead IPA (6.3% abv) and Tyne Bank North Porter (4.3% abv) head the craft keg representatives.

Sitting at the bar is a “people-watchers’” paradise with streams of bypassers and traffic constantly on the move outside.

CLASSIFIED: TO ADVERTISE CALL 01661 844115

CLASSIFIED ADVERTS

For more information on how to advertise your services, vacancies and events contact Emma Howe or Gillian Corney on 01661 844 115

Our Knowledge =

Your SucceSS

Traditional family run pub since 1975

We NOW provide courses in Cellar Craft for Public House Staff & Courses on Beer Dispense for New Brewers - ring for details

Our product range covers material from England, Belgium, France, The Netherlands, Germany and the U.S.A. They will be of interest to beer drinkers, memorabilia lovers, brewers, publicans, bar designers plus many more beer enthusiasts.

We deliver by mail order and can also ship abroad.

Beer-Inn Print (Est 1997) Long High Top, Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, HX& 7PF Tel: 01422 844437 Email: beerinnprint@gmail.com order online at: www.beerinnprint.co.uk

HAVING A BEER FEST? 2 PINT TAKE HOME BEER HOPPERS These handy biodegradable containers are designed to take out draught beer Box of 100 ex stock just £28+VAT and delivery Buy on-line: www.gnltd.co.uk or Tel: 01233 770780 For further information

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Units B & C, Smarden Business Estate Monks Hill, Smarden, Kent TN27 8QL

Lashbrooks.com BASED IN THE NORTH EAST, SUPPLYING THE NORTH EAST!!

DicK Attlee Real Ale Technical Services T: 0191 597 9668 M: 07722 631787 E: dick@ratsbeer.co.uk

Specialists in Beer Books, Postcards, Posters & Signs

Regular Music & Folk Nights

Mon - Fri: from 4pm • Sat: from 12pm Sun: 12pm - 3pm & from 7pm BRIDGE END INN, Ovingham 01661 832219

EPOS SYSTEMS & CASH REGISTERS TILL ROLLS & CONSUMABLES

T: 01642 482629/489720 E: lashbrookuk@hotmail.co.uk www.lashbrooks.com

SCOTIA WELDING & FABRICATION Micro Brewery equipment from individual components to a turnkey application.

All aspects of brewing consultancy if required. admin@scotiawelding.co.uk | www.scotiawelding.co.uk | 01578 722 696 www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 27

A-Z PUB GUIDE

Cheers is all about pubs in the North East and this should be a good place to start...

WOODMAN INN

NEWCASTLE HOTEL

NORTH YORKSHIRE

OLIVERS

23 Gilesgate, Durham, DH11 1QW t: 0191 680 8317

THE CROWN INN

Vicars Lane, Manfield, DL2 2RF t: 01325 374243

CUMBRIA COUNTY DURHAM BUTCHER’S ARMS

Middle Chare, Chester le Street, DH3 3QB t: 0191 388 3605

DUN COW

37 Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN t: 0191 386 9219

HALF MOON INN

130 North Gate, Darlington, DL1 1QS t: 01325 465765

HAT AND FEATHERS

Church Street, Seaham, SR7 7HF t: 01915 133040

HEAD OF STEAM

3 Reform Place, Durham, DH1 4RZ t: 0191 3832173

HOLE IN THE WALL

14 Horsemarket, Darlington, County Durham DL1 5PT t: 01325 466720

ITALIAN FARMHOUSE

South Street, West Rainton Houghton - le - Spring DH4 6PA t: 0191 5841022

NUMBER TWENTY-2

22 Coniscliffe Road, Darlington, DL3 7RG t: 01325 354590 e: rew@villagebrewer.co.uk www.twenty2.villagebrewer.co.uk

SURTEES ARMS

Chilton Lane, Ferryhill, DL17 0DH t: 01740 655724

THREE HORSESHOES

Maiden Law, Durham, DH7 0QT t. 01207 520900

YE OLDE ELM TREE

12 Crossgate, Durham City, DH1 4PS t: 0191 386 4621

THE AVENUE INN

Avenue Street, High Shincliffe, DH1 2PT t: 0191 386 5954

THE BAY HORSE

THE CROSS KEYS

Front Street, Esh, DH7 9QR t: 0191 3731279

THE CROWN

Mickleton, Barnard Castle, DL12 0JZ t: 01833 640 381

THE BLACKSMITHS

Station Road, Low Pittington Durham, DH6 1BJ 0191 3720287

THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON Darlington Road, Durham DH1 3QN t: 0191 375 7651

THE DUN COW

Front Street, Sedgefield, TS21 3AT t: 01740 385 6695

THE FLOATER’S MILL

Woodstone Village, Fence Houses, DH4 6BQ t: 0191 385 6695

THE GARDEN HOUSE INN North Road, Durham, DH1 4NQ t: 0191 3863395

THE GEORGE & DRAGON 4 East Green, Heighington Village, DL5 6PP t: 01325 313152

THE GREY HORSE

115 Sherburn Terrace, Consett, DH8 6NE t: 01207 502585

THE HALF MOON INN

86 New Elvet, Durham, DH1 3AQ t: 0191 3741918

THE HONEST LAWYER

1 Archer Street, Darlington County Durham, DL3 6LR t: 01325 463787

THE CLARENCE VILLA

Durham Road, Coxhoe, County Durham, DH4HX t: 0191 377 3773

THE COUNTY

13 The Green, Aycliffe Vilage, County Durham, DL5 6LX t: 01325 312273

THE OLD WELL INN

91A Claypath, Durham City, DH1 1 RG

THE LAMBTON WORM

North Road, Chester le Street, DH3 4AJ t: 0191 3871162

THE MANOR HOUSE HOTEL

Carterway Heads, Shotley Bridge, DH8 9LX t: 01207 255268

THE MARKET TAVERN 27 Market Place, Durham, DH1 3NJ t: 0191 3862069

THE MILL

Durham Road, Rainton Bridge, DH5 8NG t: 0191 5843211

THE MINERS ARMS

41 Manor Road, Medomsley, DH8 6QN t: 01207 560428

THE NEWFIELD INN

Newfield, Chester le Street, DH2 2SP t: 0191 3700565

28 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

THE BEER HALL

Hawkshead Brewery, Mill Yard, Staveley, LA8 9LR t: 01539 825260

NORTHUMBERLAND ADAM & EVE

BAMBURGH CASTLE INN

THE PLOUGH

BARRASFORD ARMS

Mountsett, Burnopfield, NE16 6BA t: 01207 570346

THE PUNCH BOWL INN

Edmundbyers, DH8 9NL t: 01207 255545

THE QUAKERHOUSE

2 Mechanics Yard, Darlington, DL3 7QF t: 07783 960105

THE QUAYS

5 Tubwell Row, Darlington, DL1 1NU t: 01325 461448

THE ROYAL OAK

7 Manor Rd, Medomsley Village, DH8 6QN t: 01207 560336

THE SCOTCH ARMS

Blackhill, Consett, DH8 8LZ t: 01207 593709

THE SHIP

Low Road, Middlestone Village, Middlestone, DL14 8AB t: 01388 810904

THE SMITHS ARMS

Brecon Hill, Castle Dene, Chester le Street, DH3 4HE t: 0191 3857559 Moor End Terrace, Belmont, DH1 1BJ t: 0191 3842667 Beamish Hall Hotel, Beamish, DH9 0BY t: 01207 288 750

THE STABLES

West Herrington, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4ND t: 0191 584 9226

THE THREE HORSESHOES

Pit House Lane, Leamside, Houghton le Spring, DH4 6QQ t: 0191 584 2394

THE WHITE LION

Newbottle Street, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4AN t: 0191 5120735

THE WHITEHILLS

Waldridge Road, Chester le Street, DH2 3AB t: 0191 3882786

WICKET GATE

60 Bridge Street, Blyth, NE24 2AP t: 01670 368346

RED LION

Front Street West, Bedlington, NE22 5TZ t: 01670 536160

RED LION INN

Stanegate Road, Newbrough, Hexham, NE47 5AR t: 01434 674226

Seahouses, NE68 7SQ t: 01665 720283 Barrasford Hexham, NE48 4AA t: 01434 681237

Humshaugh, Hexham, NE46 4AG t: 01434 681 231

THE DIAMOND INN

Main Street, Ponteland, NE20 9BB. t: 01661 872898

THE DYVELS INN

Station Road, Corbridge, NE45 5AY. t: 01434 633 633

THE FEATHERS INN

THE FORESTERS ARMS

THREE WHEATHEADS

Thropton nr Rothbury, NE65 7LR t: 01669 620262

TWICE BREWED INN

West Sleekburn NE62 5XE 01670 813345

THE GOLDEN LION

Hill Street, Corbridge, NE45 5AA t: 01434 632216

Military Road, Bardon Mill, NE47 7AN t: 01434 344534

THE GOLDEN LION

59-61 Bridge Street, Berwick, TD15 1ES t:01289 308013

THE ALLENDALE INN

THE HADRIAN HOTEL

Wark, Hexham, NE48 3LS t: 01434 230209 www.battlesteads.com

THE ANCHOR HOTEL

THE HEART OF NORTHUMBERLAND

Beadnell, NE67 5AY t: 01665 721211

THE ANCHOR INN

Whittonstall, Nr Consett, DH8 9JN t: 01207 561110

THE HORSESHOES INN

BARRELS

BATTLESTEADS HOTEL

BEADNELL TOWERS HOTEL

CROSS KEYS

Thropton, Rothbury, NE65 7HX t: 01669 620362

DIPTON MILL INN

Dipton Mill Road, Hexham, NE46 1YA t: 01434 606577 e: ghb@hexhamshire.co.uk www.diptonmill.co.uk

DOCTOR SYNTAX

Market Place, Allendale, Hexham, NE47 9BJ, t: 01434 683246 Haydon Bridge, NE47 6AB t: 01434 688121

THE ANGEL INN

Main Street, Corbridge, NE45 5LA t: 01434 632119

THE BADGER

Street Houses, Ponteland Newcastle upon Tyne NE20 9BT t: 01661 871037

New Ridley Road, Stocksfield, NE43 7RG, t: 01661 842383

THE BLACKBIRD

Newton, NE43 7UL t: 01661 844446

Matfen, NE20 0RP t: 01661 855395

DUKE OF WELLINGTON

DYKE NEUK

Meldon, Nr Morpeth, NE61 3SL t: 01670 772662

ELECTRIC WIZARD

New Market, Morpeth, NE61 1PS t: 01670 500640

FOX AND HOUNDS

Main Road, Wylam NE41 8DL t: 01661 598060

GENERAL HAVELOCK INN

Haydon Bridge, NE47 6ER t: 01434 684376

JOHN THE CLERK OF CRAMLINGTON

Front Street, Cramlington, NE23 1DN t: 01670 707060

JOINERS ARMS

Wansbeck Street, Morpeth, NE61 1XZ t: 01670 513540

Ponteland, NE20 9UH t: 01661 822 684

THE BLACK BULL

THE BLUE BELL

Horsley, NE15 0NS t: 01661 852952

Rennington, Alnwick, NE66 3RS. t: 01665 577665

THE JOINERS ARMS

Newton-by-the-Sea, NE66 3EA t: 01665 576 112

THE MANOR HOUSE

Caterway Heads Shotley Bridge, DH8 9LX t: 01207 255268

THE MANOR INN

Main Street, Haltwhistle, NE49 0BS t: 01434 322588

THE OFFICE

The Old Toll House, Castle Sqaure, Morpeth

THE OLDE SHIP INN

9 Main Street, Seahouses, NE68 7RD t: 01665 720 200

THE PILOT INN

Hillstreet, Corbridge, NE45 5AA. t: 01434 431143

THE BOATHOUSE

Wylam, NE41 8HR t: 01661 853431 • 14 Real ales on tap • CAMRA 2013 • Northumberland Pub of the Year Winner

THE BOATSIDE INN

Warden, Hexham, NE46 4SQ t: 01434 602233

THE BRIDGE END INN

• 5 Real Ales • Traditional family run pub • Folk & music nights

LION & LAMB

5 Market Street, Hexham, NE46 3NS. t: 01434 608013

THE BLUE BELL

MINERS ARMS

Main Street, Acomb, NE46 4PW t: 01434 603909

Wall, Hexham, NE44 4EE t: 01434 681232

THE PACKHORSE INN

THE WILD BOAR

Craster, Alnwick, NE66 3TR t: 01665 576461

Market Place, Allendale, NE47 9BD t: 01434 683 225

Mount Pleasant, West Mickley, Stocksfield NE43 7LP t: 01661 843146

JOLLY FISHERMAN

86 Hallgarth Street, Durham, DH1 3AS, t: 0191 3860465

THE CROWN INN

THREE HORSESHOES

Bellingham, NE48 2JT t: 01434 220254

Front Street, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3AX t: 0191 3872960

THE VICTORIA INN

The Wynding, Beadnell, NE675AX. t: 01665 720 272

Hedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, NE43 7SW t: 01661 843 607

West Road, Ovingham Prudhoe, NE42 6BN t: 01661 832219

Frederick Place, Houghton le Spring, DH4 4BN t: 0191 5128050

THE CRASTER ARMS

RIVERDALE HALL HOTEL

Hathery Lane, Horton, Prudhoe Station, Low Prudhoe, Cramlington, NE24 4HF t: 01670 822410 NE42 6NP t: 01661 832323

The Bank, Barnard Castle DL12 8PH t: 01833 690 130

THE STABLES

THE MANOR HOUSE INN

THE BRITTANIA INN

Durham Road, East Rainton, DH5 9QT t: 0191 5840944

THE JOHN DUCK

THE BEAMISH MARY INN

Red Row,Beamish, DH9 0RW t: 01207 232569

THE OLDE SHIPS INN

THE SPORTSMANS ARMS

28 West Green, Heighington, DL5 6PE t: 01325 312312

THE BLACK HORSE

Front Street, Tantobie, Stanley, DH9 9RF t: 01207 235 445

Croxdale Bridge, Croxdale, DH1 3HP t: 0191 3783782

The Green, West Auckland, DL14 9HW t: 01388 834834

No Place, Nr Beamish, DH9 0QH t: 0191 370 0237

THE OAK TREE

Front Street, Rothbury, NE65 7UT t: 01669 620334

THE CARTS BOG INN

Langley on Tyne, Hexham, NE47 5NW. t: 01434 684338

Ellingham, Chathill, NE67 5HA t: 01665 589292 31 Low Greens, Berwick upon Tweed, TD15 1LZ t: 01289 304214

THE PLOUGH

Village Square, Cramlington, NE23 1DN t: 01670 737633

THE PLOUGH INN

Front Street, Ellington, NE61 5JB t: 01670 860340

THE RAILWAY HOTEL

Church Street, Haydon Bridge, NE47 6JG t: 01434 684254

THE RAILWAY INN

Acklington, Morpeth, NE65 9BP t: 01670 760 320

THE RAT INN

Anick, Hexham, NE46 4LN t: 01434 602 814

THE RIDLEY ARMS

Stannington, Morpeth, NE61 6EL t: 01670 789216

THE SUN INN

Acomb, NE46 4PW t: 01434 602934

THE SUN INN

High Church, Morpeth, NE61 2QT, t: 01670 514153

THE SWINBURNE ARMS

31 North Side, Stamfordham, NE18 0QG t: 01661 886015

THE TANNERY

Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3QD t: 01434 605537 • Beer & Whisky room • Live music • Dog friendly

BRIDLE PATH

101 Front Street, Whickham, NE16 4JJ t: 0191 4217676

CHESTERS

Chester Road, Sunderland, SR4 7DR t: 0191 5659952

COPPERFIELDS

Eastgate, Hexham, NE46 1BH, t: 01434 602039

Grand Hotel, Grand Parade Tyne And Wear, NE30 4ER t: 0191 293 6666

THE TRAVELLERS REST

CUMBERLAND ARMS

THE TAP & SPILE

Slaley, Hexham, NE46 1TT t: 01434 673231 www.travellersrestslaley.com

THE WELLINGTON

Main Road, Riding Mill, NE44 6DQ t: 01434 682531

THE WHITE SWAN

12 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2571820 www.cumberlandarms.co.uk

DELAVAL ARMS

Old Hartley, NE26 4RL t: 0191 237 0489

Main Road, Ovingham, Prudhoe Northumberland NE42 6AG t: 01661 833188

CROWN POSADA

York Road, Whitley Bay, NE26 1AB t: 0191 293 9030

THE WHEATSHEAF

St Helens Street, Corbridge, NE45 5HE t: 01434 632020

THE VICTORIA HOTEL

BRITANNIA INN

65 High Street, Loftus, TS13 4HG t: 01287 640612

CLEVELAND BAY

Yarm Road, Eaglescliffe, TS16 0JE t: 01642 780275

THE CLEVELAND HOTEL

9-11 High Street West Redcar, Cleveland, TS10 1SQ t: 01642 484035

TYNE & WEAR ALUM ALE HOUSE

FITZGERALDS

10-12 Green Terrace, Sunderland, SR1 3PZ t: 0191 5670852

FITZGERALDS

2 South Parade, Whitley Bay, NE26 2RG t: 0191 2511255

FOX & HOUNDS

Coalburns, Greenside, NE40 4JN t: 0191 4132549

FREE TRADE INN

St Lawrence Road, Byker, Newcastle, NE6 1AP t: 0191 265 5764

GOSFORTH HOTEL

High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HQ t: 0191 2856617

HOTEL DU VIN & BISTRO Allan House, City Road Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 2BE

HUGOS

Ferry Street, South Shields, NE33 1JR

29 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2578956

ASHBROOKE SPORTS CLUB

ISIS

Ashbrooke Road, Sunderland, SR2 7HH, t: 0191 528 4536

BACCHUS

42-48 High Bridge, Newcastle, NE1 6BX. t: 0191 2611008

BENTON ALE HOUSE

Front Street, Longbenton NE7 7XE t: 0191 2661512

BEST WESTERN ROKER HOTEL Roker Terrace, Sunderland, SR6 9ND t: 0191 5671786 e: info@rokerhotel.co.uk

26 Silksworth Row, Sunderland, SR1 3QJ t: 0191 5147684

IVY HOUSE

Worcester Terrace, Sunderland SR2 7AW

LA TAVERNA

Stella Road, Ryton NE21 4LU t: 0191 413 2921

BIERREX

• Tapas • Real Ale • Chicken

BRIDGE HOTEL

LADY GREY’S

82 Pilgrim Street, NE1 6SG Castle Square, Newcastle, NE1 1RQ t: 0191 232 6400 e: info@sjf.co.uk

BRIDGE TAVERN

7 Akenside Hill Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UF t: 0191 232 1122 • Selection of real ales • Food served daily • Roof terrace

ODDFELLOWS

7 Albion Road, North Shields, NE30 2RJ t: 0191 4358450

OSBORNES BAR

61 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle, NE2 2AN t: 0191 240 2811

PUB & KITCHEN

13/14 Albion Road, North Shields NE30 2RJ t: 0191 2573199

RED LION

ROCKLIFFE ARMS

FITZGERALDS

Swainston Street, Hartlepool, TS24 8AA t: 01429 266345 e: grandhotel@tavistockleisure.com

57 St Andrews Street, Newcastle, NE1 5SE t: 0191 260 2490

FIRE STATION

THE VILLAGE INN

BEST WESTERN GRAND HOTEL

NEWCASTLE ARMS

Redcar Terrace, West Boldon, NE36 0PZ t: 0191 536 4197

1 Front Street, Bamburgh, NE69 7BP, t: 01668 214431

TEESSIDE

Streetgate, Sunniside, Newcastle, Tyne & Wear NE16 5ES t: 0191 257 4831

31 Side, Newcastle, NE1 3JE t: 0191 2321269

60 Grey Street, Newcastle, NE1 6AF t: 0191 2301350

Longframlington, Morpeth, NE65 8AD t: 01665 570268 www.thevillageinnpub.co.uk

MARQUIS OF GRANBY

20 Shakespeare Street, Newcastle, NE1 6AQ t: 0191 2323606

MAGNESIA BANK

1 Camden Street, North Shields, NE30 1NH t: 0191 257 4831

MARKET LANE

72-74 Pilgrim Street, Newcastle, NE1 6SG t: 0191 232 0251

Algernon Place, Whitley Bay, NE26 2DT t: 0191 2531299

ROSIES BAR

2 Stowell Street, NE1 4XQ t: 0191 2328477

SHIREMOOR HOUSE FARM Middle Engine Lane, North Shields, NE29 8DZ t: 0191 2576302

THE BRANDLING VILLA

THE HASTINGS

• Large selection of real ales • Regular food & drink festivals • Food served

THE HEAD OF STEAM

THE BROAD CHARE

25 Broad Chare, Trinity Gardens, Quayside, Newcastle, NE1 3DQ t: 0191 211 2144

THE CAUSEY ARCH INN

Beamish Burn Road, Marley Hill, Newcastle, NE16 5EG t: 01207 233925

THE CENTRAL

Half Moon Lane, Gateshead, NE8 2AN t: 0191 4782543 e: central@theheadofsteam.co.uk

THE CENTURION

Neville Street, Newcastle, NE1 5DG, t: 0191 261 6611 • Real ales • Food available • Live sports shown

THE CHILLINGHAM

Chillingham Road, Newcastle, NE1 1RQ t: 0191 265 3992

THE CLUNY

SUN INN

36 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE1 2PQ t: 0191 230 4474

THREE MILE INN,

Seaham Road, Houghton le Spring, DH35 8LU t: 0191 5844485

Market Lane, Swalwell, Gateshead, NE16 3AL t: 0191 442 9393 Great North Road, Gosforth, Newcastle, NE3 2DS t: 0191 255 2100

TILLEYS BAR

105 Westgate Road, Newcastle, NE1 4AG t: 0191 232 0692

TOBY BARNES

Durham Road, Sunderland SR2 7RB, t: 0191 5285644 www.tobycarvery.co.uk

TRAVELLERS REST

North Road, Wide Open NE13 6LN t: 0191 2366300

TWIN FARMS

22 Main Road, Kenton Bk Ft, NE13 8AB t: 0191 2861263

TYNE BAR

Maling Street, Newcastle, NE6 1LP

TYNEMOUTH LODGE Tynemouth Road, North Shields, NE30 4AA t: 0191 257 7565

THE BEEHIVE

Hartley Lane, Earsdon, NE25 05Z t: 0191 2529352

THE BODEGA

125 Westgate Road, Newcastle, NE1 4AG t: 0191 221 1552

THE BRIAR DENE

71 The Links, Whitley Bay, NE26 1UE t: 0191 2520926

THE BRANDLING ARMS

176 High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HD t: 0191 28540

Sunderland, SR6 0NU t: 0191 5671402

Haddricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1QL t: 0191 2840490

THE COPT HILL

THE COTTAGE TAVERN

North Street, Cleadon, SR6 7PL t: 0191 519 0547

THE COUNTY

High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HB. t: 0191 285 6919

THE COURTYARD

Wheatridge Row, Seaton Delaval, NE25 0QH t: 0191 237 6868 2 Neville Street, Newcastle NE1 5EN t: 0191 230 4236

THE HEAD OF STEAM

3 The Arcade, Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4BS t: 0191 272 8105

THE HOTSPUR

103 Percy Street, Newcastle, NE1 7RY t: 0191 2324352

THE JOB BULMAN

St Nicholas Avenue, Gosforth, NE3 1AA t: 0191 2236320

THE JOLLY STEWARD

Fulwell Ave, South Shields, NE34 7DF t: 0191 427 2951

THE KEELMAN

Grange Road, Newburn, Newcastle , NE15 8NL t: 0191 267 1689

THE KEEL ROW

The Gate, Newcastle, NE1 5RF t: 01912299430

THE KINGS ARMS

Beech Street, Deptford, SR4 6BU t: 0191 567 9804

THE KINGS ARMS

West Terrace, Seaton Sluice, NE26 4RD t: 0191 2370275

NE27 0BJ t: 0191 2680711

THE POTTERS WHEEL

Sunniside, Newcastle, NE16 5EE t: 0191 488 8068

THE PRIORY

Front Street, Tynemouth NE30 4DX. t. 0191 257 8302

THE QUEEN VICTORIA

206 High Street, Gosforth, NE3 1HD. t: 0191 2858060

THE RAVENSWORTH ARMS Lamesley, Gateshead, NE11 0ER. t: 0191 487 6023

THE RED KITE

Spa Well Road, Winlaton Mill, NE21 6RU. t: 0191 414 5840

THE RISING SUN

Bank Top, Crawcrook, NE40 4EE. t: 0191 4133316

THE ROSE & CROWN

North Street, Winlaton NE21 6BT. t: 0191 4145887

THE RUNHEAD

Holburn Lane, Ryton, Tyne & Wear, NE40 3HJ t: 0191 413 9517

THE SANDPIPER

Farringdon Road, Cullercoats, Tyne & Wear, NE30 3ER t: 0191 253 5050

THE SCHOONER

South Shore Road, Gateshead, NE8 3AF t: 0191 477 7404

THE KING GEORGE

• Handmade food • Toe-tapping tunes • Hip-ster free zone

THE LOW LIGHTS TAVERN

THE SIR WILLIAM DE WESSYNGTON

North Parade, Whitley Bay t: 0191 251 3877 Brewhouse Bank, North Shields, NE30 1LL t: 0191 2576038

2-3 Victoria Road, Concord, Washington, NE37 2JY t: 0191 418 0100

THE STAITH HOUSE

Arts Centre, Biddick Lane, Washington, NE38 8AB t: 0191 219 3463

THE MERCHANTS TAVERN

1 St Peters Wharf, Newcastle NE6 1TZ. 0191 5971212

57 Low Lights, North Shields, NE30 1JA t: 0191 2708441

THE CUMBERLAND ARMS

THE MID BOLDON CLUB

THE STEAMBOAT

THE MILE CASTLE

THE TANNERS

THE MILL HOUSE

THE THREE TUNS

James Place Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle, NE6 1LD t: 0191 265 6151

DAT BAR

11 Market St, Newcastle, NE1 6JN t: 0191 244 2513

THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON High Bridge, Newcastle NE1 1EN t: 0191 261 8852

THE DUN COW

9 High Street West, Sunderland SR1 3HA t: 0191 5672262

THE FIVE SWANS

St Marys Place, Newcastle, NE1 7PG t: 0191 2111140

THE GREEN

White Mare Pool, Wardley, Gateshead, NE10 8YB t: 0191 4950171

THE GREY HORSE

60 Front Street. East Boldon, NE36 0SH 52 Westgate Rd, NE1 5XU t: 0191 2111160 Blackfell, Birtley, DH3 1RE t: 0191 415 1313

THE MILLSTONE HOTEL

Hadricks Mill Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1QL t: 0191 285 3429

THE NEW BRIDGE

2 -4 Argyle Street, Newcastle, NE1 6PF t: 0191 2321020

THE NORTHUMBRIAN PIPER

Sheriffs Highway, Gateshead, NE9 5SD. t: 0191 4870666

THE TOWN WALL

Pink Lane, Newcastle, NE1 5HX www.thetownwall.com

• Selection of real ales • Food served daily • Cinema room available

THE TURKS HEAD

THE OLD GEORGE

Killingworth Road, South Gosforth, NE3 1SY t: 0191 285 1254

Old George Yd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EE t: 0191 260 3035

THE GREY HORSE

THE PACKHORSE

THE HARBOUR VIEW

THE PAVILION

Benedict Street, Roker,

1 Byker Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2NS

Fawdon House, Red House Farm Estate, Gosforth, NE3 2AH t: 0191 2856793

Front Street, East Boldon, NE36 0SJ t: 0191 519 1796 Old Penshaw Village, Houghton-le-Spring, DH4 7ER t: 0191 512 6080

27 Mill Dam, South Shields NE33 1EQ t: 0191 454 0134

Crookgate, Burnopfield, NE16 6NS t: 01207 270283 Hotspur North, Backworth,

41 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4DZ t: 0191 2576547

THE VICTORY

THREE HORSESHOES HOTEL

Washington Road, Sunderland Tyne & Wear, SR5 3HZ 0191 519 2006

YE OLD CROSS INN

Ryton Village, NE40 3QP t: 0191 4134689

www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 29

FUN STUFF

SIGN OF THE TIMES

THE DIRTY DOZEN TWELVE STINKERS TO TEASE YOUR BRAIN

The Kent Times newspaper certainly digs up some great local stories if this is anything to go by.

And the Australian caloriecounter sent by Martin Hammill of Hadrian Border Brewery demonstrates what curious eating habits they have Down Under. Haggis indeed!

1. What is Canada’s national animal?

2. Which Dickens character was always expecting something to turn up?

3. Which musical featured the song They Called The Wind Mariah?

4. Airstrip One is the name for Britain in which book?

5. The name of which European capital city means ‘ford’? (as in river ford) 6. Who cooks with nose of Turk and Tartar’s lips?

7. What kind of loaf is literally ‘Tony’s bread’?

8. What is both a French wine region and a luxury American car?

9. According to legend, what was Alexander The Great’s body preserved in?

10. Which famous horror film is set in the sleepy coastal town Bodega Bay? 11. According to a survey by the Halifax, what is the most common street name in the UK? 12. Which Disney film contains the song Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo?

A GIRL WALKS INTO A BAR…

...AND THE BARMAN SAYS: ‘I HEAR YOU BROKE OFF YOUR ENGAGEMENT TO SAM.’ ‘YES,’ SHE SAYS, ‘MY FEELINGS TOWARDS HIM WEREN’T THE SAME.’ THE BARMAN SAYS: ‘BUT I SEE YOU’RE STILL WEARING THE RING.’ ‘TOO RIGHT,’ SHE SAYS, ‘MY FEELINGS TOWARDS DIAMONDS HAVE NEVER CHANGED.’

Our resident cartoonist Cluff has arranged for us to reproduce some of his work previously published in Private Eye. We’re grateful to the magazine for its kind permission.

PUB FACT ACHTUNG! When visiting a pub in Germany, particularly a rural one, beware of the Stammtisch. This is a table reserved for locals and it’s not thought polite to sit there unless invited to do so. It usually has a small sign on it but it’s often the only one with a tablecloth.

EEH! NUMBERS

1698

The number of Greggs outlets in the UK (at January 2016) The name of a beer from Shepherd Neame celebrating the Kent brewery’s founding year The year Tsar Peter I of Russia introduced a beard tax (in an effort to shift his subjects away from Asiatic customs and make them more European).

QUIZ ANSWERS 1 Beaver. 2 Mr Micawber (David Copperfield). 3 Paint Your Wagon. 4 Nineteen Eighty-Four. 5 Prague. 6 The witches in Macbeth. 7 Pannetone. 8 Cadillac.

9 Honey. 10 The Birds. 11 High Street (5,410), then Station Road (3,811) and Main Street (2,702). 12 Cinderella.

30 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 31

STRONGARM RUBY RED ALE ALC 4.0% VOL

HEAD BREWER