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cheers IT’S ABOUT PUBS, PEOPLE, BEER – AND YOU! WWW.CHEERSNORTHEAST.CO.UK // DEC 2015/JAN 2016 // ISSUE 56 THE TONIC THAT’S GIN A COCKTAIL OF REGIONAL PRODUCERS FREE PLEASE TAKE A COPY ANARCHY IN THE STUDIO REVOLUTION IN BRANDING NEWCASTLE PUB PAINTER DRAWS ON BUILDINGS

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And there goes 2015 with 2016 racing into view, ready to lap the long-term leader. This time of year always appears like a Formula One commentary – where did it go? Was summer really that bad? Is there something we missed? Whoosh. One thing’s for sure, our pubs and beer producers are growing ever-more inventive, presenting us with products and events that reek of imagination and innovation. A new microbrewery seems to be born every month and as soon as they start finding their feet, the established ones announce expansion and growth. Next year will be the same. Tap take-overs – not so long ago a novelty – are regular features in our pubs, as are meet the brewer events and new beer launches. Micro-pubs are springing up in formerly-redundant plots such as railway arches and long-empty commercial premises. Licensees are exploring inventive ways to bring in more custom on those wet Tuesdays when it’s easier for customers to stay at home. It’s not easy, but it’s well worth the effort.

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  • cheersI 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 !

    WWW.CHEERSNORTHEAST.CO.UK // DEC 2015/JAN 2016 // ISSUE 56

    THE TONIC THATS GINA COCKTAIL OF REGIONAL PRODUCERS

    FREEPLEASE TAKE A COPY

    ANARCHY IN THE STUDIOREVOLUTION IN BRANDING

    NEWCASTLE PUB PAINTERDRAWS ON BUILDINGS

  • ALC 4.0% VOLRUBY RED ALE

    STRONGARM

    HEAD BREWER

  • EDITORIAL01661 844 115 07930 144 846 Alastair Gilmour [email protected]@CheersPal www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for omissions and errors. All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved.

    And there goes 2015 with 2016 racing into view, ready to lap the long-term leader. This time of year always appears like a Formula One commentary where did it go? Was summer really that bad? Is there something we missed? Whoosh.

    One things for sure, our pubs and beer producers are growing ever-more inventive, presenting us with products and events that reek of imagination and innovation. A new microbrewery seems to be born every month and as soon as they start finding their feet, the established ones announce expansion and growth.

    Next year will be the same. Tap take-overs not so long ago a novelty are regular features in our pubs, as are meet the brewer events and new beer launches. Micro-pubs are springing up in formerly-redundant plots such as railway arches and long-empty commercial premises.

    Licensees are exploring inventive ways to bring in more custom on those wet Tuesdays when its easier for customers to stay at home. Its not easy, but its well worth the effort.

    The fact that Wylam Brewery is reviving the Palace of Arts in Newcastles Exhibition Park and creating one of the best beer tourism venues in Europe shows the extent of the vision thats driving the whole North East sector. We live in exciting times indeed.

    Cheers North East too will continue to do its bit by supporting the regions pubs and bringing the best of their news to the table. Like everybody else were full of hope and expectation. This year has been terrific heres to a prosperous 2016 for all. CheersAlastair GilmourEditor, Cheers North East

    Strange things happen in pubs. Cheers North East almost literally bumped into watercolour artist Paul Goldsmith in one. Had we not both been in each others way, pints in hand, it might have been ages before we come across his book of extraordinary paintings that feature some of Newcastles most significant architecture. Many of them are pubs and Paul has some amazing tales to tell about each one some of which he also shares in the book. They call it serendipity a happy accident but we call it being in the right place at the right time.And the right place is undoubtedly the pub.

    ALL THE LABELS HAVE FUNNY LITTLE STORIES; EVERYBODY SITS AND READS THEM AS THEYRE DRINKING

    OUR SPONSORS

    We are tweeting. Follow us @cheers_ne

    When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it

    Wylam Brewery

    WELCOME

    THE TONIC THATS GIN

    GIFTS FOR GIVING

    GREAT WINES FROM OZ

    PUBS AND MORE PUBS

    FUN WITH FUN STUFF

    LATEST NEWS

    CONTENTS

    PUBLISHED BY:

    Publishers: Jane Pikett & Gary Ramsay Unit One, Bearl Farm Stocksfield Northumberland NE43 [email protected] twitter: @offstonepublish www.offstonepublishing.co.uk

    A BRUSH WITH A PUB PAINTER12

    202624

    ALCHEMY AT WORK14

    2934

    04

    ADVERTISING01661 844 115 Gillian Corney [email protected]

    Emma Howe [email protected]

    Photography: Peter Skelton

    COVER: GIN-MAKER VICKI RAMSAY HAMMOND AT NUMBER TWENTY 2 IN DARLINGTON. PHOTO PETER SKELTON

    MARC ROSS, DESIGNER

    BRAND NEW BEGINNING22

  • 4 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    HADRIAN BORDERBREWERY

    GLUTEN FREEGRAINGER ALE

    NOW AVAILABLE IN BOTTLE CASK AND KEGHADRIAN BORDER BREWERY

    Unit 5, The Preserving Works, Newburn Industrial Estate, Shelley Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne. NE15 9RTt: 0191 264 9000 | e: [email protected] | http://www.hadrian-border-brewery.co.uk

    NEWS

    NEW BREW HAS COFFEE ANCESTRY

    Wylam Brewery has launched a vegan-friendly beer with a whole history of drinking to its name. Slaughterhouse Stout (8.8% abv) is named after a coffee house in St Martins Lane in London called Old Slaughters. Opened in 1692 to cater for a new craze for coffee, it was where the capitals leading intellectuals, dandies and artists would collect to experience its stimulating qualities. The likes of Hogarth, Gainsborough, Kent and Roubilac would be seen regularly in attendance. Water in those days was unfit to drink unless it was boiled and if it was boiled you might as well make beer out of it, or this fashionable coffee stuff.

    Coffee Houses were seen as more civilised than taverns; places where men could converse in male company (women were not allowed) and where great debate and business could be sparked. But to ensure its clientele was duly entertained, Old Slaughters developed The Club of Slaughters, an exclusive clique who were afforded access to a secret room. What went on there we might never know, but it might even have been vegan.

    The Schooner (dubbed the second-best pub in Gateshead by its owner Dave Campbell) held a Movember Madness charity day in aid of testicular and prostate cancer as well as other conditions that affect men in particular. People are encouraged to go unshaven for a month before whipping all their facial hair off, so barber Barry Whincup from Scotts in Newcastle brought his chair to The Schooner to give participants an encounter with a very sharp razor.

    It made us think that many pubs across the country double up as post offices and general stores granted, its no groundbreaking development but its a trend thats gathering pace as landlords seek to maximise their customer base. Another idea is to offer a short back and sides with your pints and shorts.

    John Longden, chief executive of industry group Pub is the Hub, is a big fan of the idea. He says: Two pubs which have recently introduced hairdressing include The Star Inn in Vogue, Cornwall, and The Glanyrafron Arms at Talgarreg, Ceredigion, Wales. Not only do

    the pubs benefit, but the hairdressers seem to enjoy better trade from their new surroundings.

    North East pubs that fit the bill? The Trimmers Arms in South Shields perhaps, or maybe The RockQuiff Arms in Whitley Bay, or The Beehive or (stop it, thats enough, Ed).Other barber-ous pub names to [email protected]

    HAIRS THE SHARP END OF CHARITY

    Samichlaus Lager from Schloss Eggenberg in Austria is brewed only once a year on St Nicholas Day, December 6 and aged for 10 months before bottling. Samichlaus (Santa Claus,

    14.0% abv), with aromas of brandy and a spicy, fruit-filled flavour, and reckoned to be the worlds strongest lager, it is so powerful the brewery issues steins the size of espresso cups for gentle sipping.

    WORLDS STRONGEST LAGER

    Chairman: Barber Barry Whincup

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 5

    WYLAM BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

    LE

    REMAIN IN LIGHT

    ABV 5.0%

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    s i n g l e m a lt t r i p l e h o

    p

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADEWYLA

    M BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

    LE

    REMAIN IN LIGHT

    ABV 5.0%

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

    s i n g l e m a lt t r i p l e h o

    p

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

    s i n g l e m a lt t r i p l e h o

    p

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.4% PAID

    GALENA

    proper beerPREPARED BY

    WYLAM

    6.3%

    JAKEHEADIPA

    Lemon Balm & Rosemary Sai

    son

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.4% PAID

    LES SAISONNIER

    proper beerPREPARED BY

    WYLAM

    6.3%

    JAKEHEADIPA

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.7% PAIDDUTY 5.7% 5.7% PAIDrye & caraway pale al

    e

    CHARA

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

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    p

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

    WYLAM BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

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    REMAIN IN LIGHT

    ABV 5.0%

    WYLAM BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

    LE

    REMAIN IN LIGHT

    ABV 5.0%

    Lemon Balm & Rosemary Sai

    son

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.4% PAID

    LES SAISONNIER

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.7% PAIDDUTY 5.7% 5.7% PAIDrye & caraway pale al

    e

    CHARA

    WYLAM BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

    LE

    REMAIN IN LIGHT

    ABV 5.0%

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    proper beerPREPARED BY

    WYLAM

    6.3%

    JAKEHEADIPA

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.4% PAID

    GALENA

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    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

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    DUTY 5.7% PAIDDUTY 5.7% 5.7% PAIDrye & caraway pale al

    e

    CHARA

    Lemon Balm & Rosemary Sai

    son

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.4% PAID

    LES SAISONNIER

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.4% PAID

    GALENA

    proper beerPREPARED BY

    WYLAM

    6.3%

    JAKEHEADIPA

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    s i n g l e m a lt t r i p l e h o

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    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

    Lemon Balm & Rosemary Sai

    son

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 5.4% PAID

    LES SAISONNIER

    Lemon Balm & Rosemary Sai

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    DUTY 5.4% PAID

    LES SAISONNIER

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    wylam brewery

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    CASCADE

    proper beerPREPARED BY

    WYLAM

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    WYLAM BREWERY

    A SUPER-STACKED ALPHA PA

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    ABV 5.0%

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 6.2% PAID

    HAXAN black wit

    WYLAM BREWERY

    VEGAN FRIENDLY SLAUGHTERHOUSE

    STOUT

    ABV 8.8%

    s i n g l e m a lt t r i p l e h o

    p

    wylam brewery

    DUTY 4.1% PAID

    CASCADE

    MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW BEER!

    wylam breweryfrom all at

    x

    NEWS

    TOP TALENT SHOWS FIZZ

    A Hexham-based marketing manager has been recognised by a national magazine as being one of the best in the business. Jaala Pickering from soft drinks manufacturer Fentimans has been selected by The Grocer magazine as a Top New Talent working for the biggest brands and retailers in the country.

    The dancer, model and actress (True Blood) was praised by a judging panel for her ability to interact directly with customers and for creating events, such as a cigar lounge during the Rugby World Cup, that make a brand relatable and can change individual perceptions.

    The Stables Brewery, based at Beamish Hall, County Durham, has presented Beamish Halls summer beer festival winners with their well-earned certificates. A group of enthusiasts, including Stables brewer John Taylor, calling themselves The Beer Doctors (two of them are actually doctors), sampled every one of the 40-plus beers over the festival weekend, scoring them accordingly.

    Overall winner was Wentworth Blueberry Stout. In the 4.5% abv and over category for local beers, Darwin Rolling Hitch came top with

    Brewlab Heiltrack (brewed by students) runner-up. Winner of the local beers under 4.5% abv section was Firebrick Pagan Queen runner up, Rausch Bier from Redscar. The best local dark beer was Sonnet 43 Bourbon Milk Stout with Redscar Poison coming second.

    Beamish halls Winter Beer Festival is scheduled for January 22 and Saturday January 23 2016 with more than 90 ales and ciders plus some terrific music from the likes of Steve Daggett, Junco Partners and George Shovlin. www.beamish-hall.co.uk for details

    Customers and staff at the newly spruced-up Crown Posada in Newcastle have been chipping in with their loose change all year to make a donation to charity. To prove that pennies indeed make pounds, a cheque for 1,000 has been gratefully received by the Childrens Cancer Fund. A big pat on the back for everybody.

    BEER DOCTORS FEEL THE PULSE AND CHOOSE THEIR WINNERS

    GRAND EFFORT ALL ROUND

  • 6 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    NEWS

    THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR PUBBINGA great idea for energetic pub lovers have a few pints, go for a walk, have a few pints, go for a walk. A new programme of Boots & Beer Walking Weekenders for 2016 has been announced, based at great country pubs in the regions favourite walking areas that include the North Yorks Moors and the Lake District.

    A typical weekend starts on a Friday night with an icebreaker pub evening and also choose an appropriate level of walk for the Saturday and Sunday. On Saturday night its time for a pub quiz. A choice of two guided walks each day adventurous or leisurely has been carefully devised by Mark Reid, a qualified mountain leader who shares his knowledge of the history, heritage, geology, plants and wildlife. Since 1997 Mark has walked more than 15,000 miles of footpaths and written 17 walking guidebooks, including best-selling Inn Way series. www.walkingweekenders.co.uk

    Lake District-based Hawkshead Brewery is continuing its programme of new releases and collaborations with other like-minded beer producers.

    The fifth beer in its numbered oak aged series has just been unveiled No5 (8.5% abv) is a matured version of Hawksheads Brodies Prime Export, aged for nine months in oak casks previously filled with red wine from Burgundy.

    And three versions of Oat Wine a collaboration brew with Wild Beer Co of Somerset are a take on classic British

    barley wine but dominated by oats, not barley. The three are: Cask Aged (9.0% abv), Cider Brandy

    Barrel Aged (9.0% abv) and

    Bourbon Barrel Aged (9.0% abv) all richly fruity and spicy.

    Other news from Hawkshead includes its annual festive brew Jingle Fells, now accompanied by a rather fetching t-shirt, while the draw has been made for the Rainbow Project 2016 which next year involves seven breweries from New Zealand.

    Hawkshead has been paired with the legendary Yeastie Boys for the competition that has involved UK, international and US brewers collaborating to produce a beer loosely conceived around the colours of the rainbow. Hawkshead and Yeastie Boys have been given the colour green to play around with. Head brewer Matt Clarke is a Kiwi, so theres bound to be a bit of an edge to his effort.

    NEW BEERS DEVELOP FROM OAT CUISINE

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 7

    NEWS

    Find us on Pink Lane, NE1 5HX www.TheTownWall.com

    @TheTownWallPub

    Yo Ho Ho Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year!

    All The Best for 2016 To You & Yours

    From All At The Town Wall

    x

    Camerons Brewery has locked horns with one of the regions most innovative food producers to bring platefuls of variety and quality to its managed estate, creating up to 12 jobs in the process. The first floor of the Dun Cow in Sunderland is now operating as a Longhorns BBQ Smokehouse restaurant.

    Longhorns has also over the kitchen at Tilleys, Newcastle, which sees a new menu introduced with a selection of their renowned meals and light bites.

    Mick Dixon, owner of Longhorns

    BBQ Smokehouse, which has developed cannily out of simple street food, said: Following the success of the two Longhorns in Newcastle plus a host of events around the North East we feel its the right time to develop our successful brand into new areas.

    Chris Soley, Camerons director and general manager, said: Longhorns brand of locally-sourced premium smoked meats and bar snacks is the ideal fit for our diverse range of beers, wines and spirits. It is fantastic to work together with another great North East business.

    Hadrian Border Brewery has issued a Christmas special Rudolphs Ruin (5.5% abv) which is a very pale, hoppy beer with orange and apricot notes and also launched a gluten-free version of award-winning Grainger Ale (4.6% abv) in cask, keg and bottle.

    Hadrian Border is also known for its contributions to charity, with several good causes around the North East benefitting from a percentage of appropriate pints sold. The latest beneficiary is Daft As A Brush cancer charity founded by philanthropist Brian Burney to transport people from their homes in Northumberland to hospital appointments. A cheque for 727 has been handed over the proceeds from 5,040 pints of Daft As A Brush beer sold during October (252) and 475 from The Boathouse, Wylam, charity day in November. Well done folks.

    WHERE FOOD AND DRINK ARE SHM..O..O..KIN

    BREWERYS DAFT IDEAS PROVE POSITIVE

    Hopping happy: Martin Hamill, left, and Brian Burney

  • 8 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    NEWS

    Seasons Greetings & Happy New Year from all at The Bridge Tavernwww.TheBridgeTavern.com

    ONE IS ENHANCED BY SHERRYA whisky blended from distilleries in Scotland, England Ireland and Wales has been released under a new expression. The ONE, from The Lakes Distillery in Cumbria, has been taken to another level by its creators who have launched an exclusive sherry cask finished version.

    Paul Currie, founder and managing director of The Lakes Distillery which opened in December 2014, said: Sherry casks are well established in the industry for maturing whisky but are rarely used for finishing a blend. We have created a significantly different whisky with a darker tone and a wonderful taste sweet honey, subtle fruit and slightly smoky with hints of spice.

    A North East playwright is appealing for family members or fans of a Victorian music hall star to come forward with information on him. Former Vaux Brewery press officer Ed Waugh is keen to document the life and times of Ned Corvan, the first professional North East singer/songwriter and present the story on stage.

    Ed, pictured left, says music hall had a close affinity to pubs with performers honing their talents in front of the fiercest audiences and not a lot has changed.

    He says: Ned Corvan,

    who was born in 1827 and died of tuberculosis in 1865, performed and wrote songs about the North East as a whole. Anti-establisment to the end, he wrote songs that had resonance with working-class people that are still relevant today, such as Rise In Small Coals about energy companies putting up their prices to increase profits and Sword Dancers Lament, about the depressed economy. Eds previous play Hadaway Harry transfers to Newcastle Theatre Royal in February 2017. Ed Waugh: 0191 455 0608 or 07960 066 377.

    EDS BID IS TO PUT NED TO BED

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 9

    NEWS

    EVER ROLLIN CAST OF ALES BOTH LOCAL & NATIONAL, LOADS OF CIDERS IN THE CELLAR

    HOME COOKED FOOD 12-8 MON TO SAT AND 12-4 ON SUNDAYTHE BIG RAY AWARD FOR THE FINEST SHITHOUSE IN GATESHEAD

    LIVE MUSIC AT THE SCHOONERDECEMBERSAT 5 THE HOOKAHS 8.30PMSUN 6 BUSKERS 4.30PMTHUR 10 ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE SESSIONS 8.00PMFRI 11 A TRIBUTE TO MUDDY WATERS 8.30PM (FT. THE KING BEES & STRUGGLE BUGGY)SAT 12 THE NUTOPIANS 8.30PMSUN 13 LOS PALOMINOS 4.30PM (THE SCHOONERS 3RD BIRTHDAY)SAT 19 GIG FEAR 8.30PMSUN 20 BIG RAY & THE HIPTHRUSTERS 4.30PMSUN 27 THE SURESHOTS 4.30PM

    JANUARYSUN 3 BUSKERS 4.30PMSUN 10 THE BEEFY LA SLAP TRIO 4.30PMTHUR 14 ACOUSTIC SHOWCASE SESSIONS 8:00PMSAT 16 LOS PALOMINOS 8.30PMSUN 17 THE LOFT BOYS 4.30PMSAT 23 HOKUM HOTSHOTS 8.30PMSUN 24 BERNIE & THE BLUE NOTES 4.30PMSAT 30 THE SOUR MASH TRIO 8.30PMSUN 31 1977 4.30PM

    The Red Kite at Winlaton Mill, recently refurbished with new Food Menu & more...

    The Red Kite has a new look with new dining areas, new kitchen, coffee service and refurbished rest rooms. All meals are made using fresh, locally

    sourced ingredients wherever possible. And, with the exception of our bread and ice-cream,

    everything from the chips to the sauces, are made from scratch on the premises.

    Outside the pub there is a large car park area, planting and garden furniture to entice walkers on the Derwent Walk and dogs are very welcome.

    Quiz Night Tuesday @ 9pm

    1 entry with Prizes and Bar Snacks

    Food served daily 12 - 9pm

    Sunday Lunch12 - 9pm

    Starters & Desserts 3.95 each& Main Course 8.50

    from 5pm Sunday Specials available

    Spa Well Rd, Winlaton Mill,Blaydon-on-Tyne NE21 6RU. Tel: 0191 414 5840

    [email protected]

    AVOID THE CROWDS, SHOP IN A BREWERY

    GONGS GALORE FOR DURHAM

    Tyne Bank Brewery is extending an invitation to those whod rather sample unique gifts, food and drink in an environment very different to that of the high street. On Saturday December 12 (11am-5pm) local artisan producers are lined up to present chocolates, soaps, coffee, pottery, art and more.

    Tyne Bank marketing manager Sam Capper says: Well have a pop-up bar with cask and keg beers that include a nitro keg of our

    December special Crme Caramel, with hot spiced cider, soft drinks and mince pies.

    The idea is you can buy unique local gifts to suit a wide range of budgets, away from the city chaos of and enjoy a brewery-fresh beer as you shop.

    And to enjoy the day even more, Sam reminds us that the Q2 bus stops very close by the brewery at Hawick Crescent Industrial Estate, St Lawrence Road, Newcastle NE6 1AS

    Durham Brewery has ended an award-winning year with yet another success. The company won the manufacturing category at the Federation of Small Businesses regional awards to add to an earlier gold medal for Bedes Chalice from the British Bottlers Institute and silver for Finchale Abbaye at the World Beer Awards.

    Brewery owner Steve Gibbs who has also been on an export mission to Milan says: Due to the interest in our 21st anniversary beer Smoking Blonde, and its subtle smoke and fruit notes, we will be making some more in the new year.

  • 10 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

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    The campaign by health groups and lobbyists targeting people to abstain from alcohol during January has been gathering pace over the past two or three years. What was a more of a voluntary decision to dry out after the festive excesses has now wormed its way into society almost like a new law sponsored by Alcohol Concern.

    While were well aware of the damage that can be done by consuming vast amounts of alcohol, a month off beer wines and spirits has been proven to be of no long-term benefit whatsoever.

    The key to this as always is moderation and responsibility. Pubs can barely survive the quiet winter

    months as it is, let alone come up against a wall of sobriety, so lets sign up to a couple of schemes where we can keep the flag flying without getting out of control.

    At risk of inviting the comment he would say that, we asked Rob Theakston, managing director of Black Sheep Brewery, what he thought about Dry January schemes. Rob says: Try January is a fantastic initiative to introduce quality beer to new drinkers. There has never been a greater choice of ales available for people to try with lots of different flavours, ingredients and styles appealing to more and more people. Lets hope Try January will encourage drinkers to visit the pub more often.

    EVERYONE LOVES A TRIER

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 11

    The staff and management of the Twice Brewed would like to welcome you to the re-opening

    of our newly refurbished bar.

    With good food, beer and wine, alongsideour cosy new fireplaces, its the perfect stop

    for a cold winters day and night.

    Opening times: Monday - Thursday: 11am - 10pm

    Friday: 11pm - 11pmSaturday: 10am - 11pmSunday: 10am - 10pm

    Food Served:Lunch: 12 noon - 2.30pm

    Dinner: 6pm - 9pm

    Phone: (+44) 01434 344534Email: [email protected]

    Under new managementReopening Friday 4th December

    SCOTIA WELDING& FABRICATION

    Micro Brewery equipment from individual components to a turnkey application.

    All aspects of brewing consultancy if required.

    [email protected] | www.scotiawelding.co.uk | 01578 722 696

    NEWS

    THE FEATHERS INN

    Enjoy a continental evening of food and beer. Get your ticket now for a fantastic evening of wonderful beers and food. You get one of each of the three dishes

    with drinks included in the price of your ticket.

    18 per advance ticket bought before 24th December.

    20 tickets sold after Christmas, places strictly limited so get your tickets early.

    For further details: 01661 843607 www.thefeathers.netThe Feathers Inn, Hedley on the Hill, near Stocksfield

    BEER AND FOOD NIGHT FRIDAY 5TH FEBRUARY

    ALASTAIR SAWDAYS PUB AWARD 2013-14GOOD PUB GUIDE AWARD WINNER 2015

    Brewers new and old are innovating and we are seeing a growth in the number of pubs and bars which focus on craft ales, so the opportunity is there for us to use Try January to kick off 2016 as we mean to go on.

    With that endorsement ringing in our ears, were also inviting readers to take part in #tryanuary (www.twitter.com/tryanuary), a Twitter-based campaign developed for the good of the trade and not run for profit. It features a bottled beer as beer of the day for every day throughout January, with a competition run to win all 31 beers, so its basically a month of discovering, sharing and enjoying beer together beers that you can also drink in the pub.

    Running alongside that is Try

    January, which aims to harness the New Year resolution mindset during an otherwise dark month and transform it into something positive and fun. Pubs can inspire customers by introducing exciting Dry January options.

    We applaud the virtue of people changing something about themselves for the better but this has resulted in many of them staying indoors rather than putting themselves in social situations which are actually beneficial, particularly to mental health, depression and wellbeing.So, try something new in January; visit a different pub; sample an unfamiliar style of beer; treat yourself to a cocktail, go out for lunch, or discover the world of wine. Try January, its all there for you in the pub.

    IVE USED UP ALL MY SICK DAYS SO IM CALLING IN DRUNK. HENNY YOUNGMAN

    QUOTE

  • 12 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    Newcastles rich architectural heritage is well documented but it often takes someone elses vision to appreciate what we invariably scurry past. Great fortified structures can often be taken for granted, as are historic houses, sturdy columns, graceful bridges and Victorian arcades.

    Pubs too have earned their right to be examined more closely those balustrades, that cornice and this roofline add up to much more than a simple drinking house. We see them every day but there are personal stories wrapped up every one of them and thats one reason that watercolour artist Paul Goldsmith has been painting Newcastles buildings for the last 16 years.

    Gateshead-born Paul has long been intrigued by the tales

    passers-by tell him about a scene he is laying out on paper in front of them. And its these comments from strangers told through their great memories and bad experiences that have given his work a different perspective and depth.

    So, for two years hes been working towards producing a new set of paintings for a book, Visions Of Newcastle, which arent just representations of fine architecture but are animated with wit, personality and character.

    People always commented about my work, saying I should do a book, says Paul, putting a few finishing strokes to his version of the stained glass windows at the Crown Posada. So with some Arts Council funding which went towards paper and paints it all helps I got started. I thought

    AWASH WITH TALENT

    An artist who fills his work with personality is a real find. Alastair Gilmour shares a pint full

    of anecdotes with Paul Goldsmith

    PUBS AND PAINT

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    Last Thursday of every month Tickets

    TWO for a TENNER

    TYNE IDOLS and CHEERS have teamed up to bring

    you monthly REAL ALE MYSTERY TOURS aboard

    our retro double decker. Each month well take you

    to a different local brewery followed by ale

    tasting in award-winning real ale pubs along the

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    The Rat Inn, Anick, Hexham, Northumberland NE46 4LNT: 01434 602 814 www.theratinn.com

    BOXING DAY BRUNCHWalking off the Christmas Day excesses?

    Call in afterwards, warm yourself by the fire and choose from a tasty selection of brunch dishes created especially

    Food served from 11.30am - 4.00pm Even better, reserve your table in advance

    Please refer to our website for Christmasand New Year opening hours

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 13

    PUBS AND PAINT

    Cumberland Breweries Ltd., The Green, Great Corby, Carlisle, Cumbria CA4 8LR

    Telephone:(01228) 5608991 www.cumberlandbreweries.com

    Newcastle deserved it; we have so many beautiful buildings and I wanted to document them.

    Paul is never short of anecdotes about every image in his magnificent book and he appears to revel in the reactions of observers as much as he enjoys the creative process of portraying the likes of the Theatre Royal, The Beehive, Laing Art Gallery and Bridge Hotel. Sitting on his fold-up stool in the street with a small drawing board on his knee gave him a unique insight into human behaviour. There were people who loved what he was doing and told him so, while some would tell him it was about time he got a proper job. Others would approach him with coffee, milk and sugar.

    One guy came back and gave me a bottle of cognac, he says. Fantastic. Beggars would come and sit beside me because I was attracting attention. I didnt mind that at all.

    They would say, I wish I had the opportunity to do that. Id tell them, go to Poundland, pick up a pad of paper and a pack of pencils and have a go and theyve come back saying its the best thing Ive ever done. I tell them to keep it up.

    One said thank you very, very much; Im homeless and it distracts from the emptiness of it all.

    Paul got his first set of watercolours when he was 11 years old and sold his first painting then, too. He got 11/6 for it and promptly gave it to his mother (It was a bit

    tight then). He kept sixpence back though and took his girlfriend to the pictures.

    It wasnt all rosy, however. He says: I was dyslexic and couldnt read and write, but that wasnt diagnosed until I was 19. I was classed as educationally subnormal. I went on to get three A-levels and a BA Hons degree. Ive been teaching for 27 years including special needs groups through that. I tell them if I can do it, you can do it.

    Paul makes his own watercolours, grinding raw pigment and mixing it with gum arabic and teaches the art of craft. He is adamant that anybody can draw and paint. Give them the tools to make marks on paper and theyll discover whats inside them.

    Doing this Ive learned so much about Newcastle, he says. One day he might get a proper job.

    *Visions of Newcastle by Paul Goldsmith (Zymurgy Publishing, 14.99) is available in all good bookshops.

    Glass act: Paul Goldsmith at the Crown Posada, Newcastle

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 14

    BREWERIES

    IN CONVERSATION WITH... ANDY AITCHISON,

    NORTHERN ALCHEMY

    STARTERS? Weve been brewing for 18 months now the first beers were for the Cumberland Arms beer festival in June 2014. Since then its been frenetic, non-stop, and a whole heap of fun. At the moment we could sell more beer than we can make.

    As this year has progressed weve

    Northern Alchemy (flavour-led craft beers) is based in a former shipping container next door to the Cumberland

    Arms in Byker, Newcastle. It may be small but the plans are big. We follow up with news from around the brewery scene

    WELL JUST HAVE TO WAIT AND SEE. IT WOULD BE LUSH, THOUGH

    PLANS? Were brewing three times a week at present and that way we can just about manage to keep up with demand. Thatll be the case until we get a 10-barrel kit and the brewery we have now will become our pilot plant. Weve got plans for a bigger brewery and wed love to be able to stay here

    found we cant make it fast enough. Its going all over the country through distributors to the likes of York, Manchester and Northern Ireland where were doing a Meet The Brewer event in the new year. A collaboration with BrewDog was a great way of us getting our beer around the country to 24 different venues.

    at the Cumberland Arms, but this is a conservation area and wed have to get lots of local authority approvals, so well just have to wait and see. It would be lush, though.

    Weve just taken on Jamie Hall which is a good move. Weve been borrowing staff from the Cumberland Arms for a day at a time and it

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 15

    TRADITIONAL PUB WITH REAL ALES A REAL FIRE AND A WARM WELCOME

    Station Road, Wylam, NE41 8HRTelephone: 01661 853431

    Follow us @Boathouse Wylam & Like us on

    12 Handpulls - 12 Ciders/Perrys

    Back by popular demand Pie & Peas!

    Toasties, sandwiches, snacks and a selectionof coffees available everyday

    LIVE MUSICSaturday 12th December

    The Loft Boys - starts at 8pm

    BUSKERS NIGHTS - TUESDAYSDecember 15th (Christmas sing along) & 29th

    January 12th & 26th, February 9th & 23rd

    KARAOKE NIGHTS - SATURDAYSNovember 28th & December 19th (Christmas sing along)

    DATE FOR YOUR DIARYSaturday 27th February 2015

    The FANTASTIC Riff Raff - starts 8pm

    CHRISTMAS DAYOpen 12 noon until 3pm

    Lynsey, Mark, James & all the staff would like to wish all their customers a very Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year

    BREWERIES

    Bookings now being taken

    Christmas FAYRE

    17.50 Per PersonPre-bookings only

    1st December - 30th December (Excluding Christmas Day)

    Monday to Thursday 12pm - 8pm Friday to Sunday 12pm - 8.30pm

    OpenHOURS

    CHRISTMAS DAY 11pm - 3pm Drinks Only

    BOXING DAY 12pm - 10.30pm

    NEW YEARS EVE 12pm - 1am

    NEW YEARS DAY

    Food Served 12pm - 5pm

    Food Served 12pm - 5pm

    12pm - 10.30pm

    Prudhoe Station | Prudhoe | NE42 6NP

    for reservations

    (01661)832323please call:

    lot of time discussing whens the best time to add them to the brew.

    Our latest beer is Whole Coffee Bean and Toasted Coconut which we produced for the Hanging Bat pub in Edinburgh. Its great to be able to do that sort of thing on our small kit if we were doing 10 barrels of that it would take a while to shift, but when youre doing small amounts its always pre-sold so theres not much risk.

    SUCCESSES? Our Marmalade and Assam Tea IPA has become a core beer after being developed with the Hop On The Bike beer bloggers from Manchester. Its basically marmalade on toast with a cup of tea we couldnt not make it now.

    Another core beer is 60-Minute Continuously Hopped Pilsner which has been available at Bierrex in Newcastle every day since it opened. Weve brewed that more than any other beer. On the other hand, were also doing a Blueberry and Banana Milkshake beer.Northern Alchemy, James Place Street, Newcastle NE6 1LD. wearenorthernalchemy.com

    became clear we needed someone full-time. Jamie showed a lot of aptitude.

    INSPIRATION? All our inspiration comes from cooking ingredients and we try as many different ways as possible to get the best out of them and spend a

    Shipping beer: Andy Aitchison, left, and Jamie Hall

  • 16 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

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

    Open every day from 12 noon

    REAL ALES ON TAPNEW Menu - food served everyday - Daily Specials Board

    Traditional Sunday Lunch 12 noon - 5 pmBeer Garden with childrens play area - Families & cyclists

    welcome - Dog friendly

    QUIZ NIGHT EVERY TUESDAY - starts 9.15 pm free supper!

    ENTERTAINMENT NIGHTSDecember: Fri 11th - e Beehives, Sat 12th - Jade,

    u 17th - Buskers Night, Sat 19th - GladstoneJanuary: New Years Day - Den & Clive, e Hamstrings, Lyrical Whisky

    Fri 8th - Midlife Crisis, Sat 16th - Lounge Lizards,Fri 22nd - Diablo, Fri 29th - Borderland

    CHRISTMAS FAYRE MENUCream of Leek & Potato Soup, served with warm bread roll & butterCream of Leek & Potato Soup, served with warm bread roll & butter

    Craysh Cocktail, craysh tails bound in a citrus mayonnaise, nestled on a Craysh Cocktail, craysh tails bound in a citrus mayonnaise, nestled on a mound of dressed salad and served with brown bread & buttermound of dressed salad and served with brown bread & butter

    Chicken Liver Pate, served with salad garnish, Cumberland sauce & melba toastChicken Liver Pate, served with salad garnish, Cumberland sauce & melba toast

    Creamy Garlic Button Mushrooms served in a lo basketCreamy Garlic Button Mushrooms served in a lo basket

    Roast Northumbria Turkey Breast, served with traditionalRoast Northumbria Turkey Breast, served with traditionalRoast Northumbria Turkey Breast, served with traditionaltrimmings & pan justrimmings & pan justrimmings & pan justrimmings & pan jus

    Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,Slow Braised Daube of Beef, cooked with tomatoes,mushrooms & tarragonmushrooms & tarragonmushrooms & tarragonmushrooms & tarragonmushrooms & tarragon

    Poached Cod Fillet knapped with a saron & craysh saucePoached Cod Fillet knapped with a saron & craysh saucePoached Cod Fillet knapped with a saron & craysh saucePoached Cod Fillet knapped with a saron & craysh saucePoached Cod Fillet knapped with a saron & craysh sauce

    Lemon & Thyme RisottoLemon & Thyme RisottoLemon & Thyme RisottoLemon & Thyme RisottoLemon & Thyme Risotto

    All served with potatoes & season vegetables All served with potatoes & season vegetables All served with potatoes & season vegetables All served with potatoes & season vegetables

    Christmas Pudding & Brandy sauceChristmas Pudding & Brandy sauceChristmas Pudding & Brandy sauce

    Sherry TrieSherry TrieSherry Trie

    Dark Chocolate Brownie & Ice CreamDark Chocolate Brownie & Ice CreamDark Chocolate Brownie & Ice CreamDark Chocolate Brownie & Ice Cream

    Trio of Blackberrys Ice CreamTrio of Blackberrys Ice CreamTrio of Blackberrys Ice CreamTrio of Blackberrys Ice Cream

    Coee & Sweet Mince Pies

    18.95

    Roast Northumbria Turkey Breast, served with traditional

    THE WHITE SWAN (OVINGHAM)

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

    NEW YEARS EVE DINNER - 4 COURSES 25

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 17

    BREWERIES

    ARTISAN BREW CO

    A Tyneside pub that escaped flattening by developers a couple of years ago has survived, thrived and launched its own, in-house brewery. The team at the Three Mile Inn, Gosforth headed by Chris Shorter decided to turn from bar staff to brewers after chatting to some of their beer-loving customers, who even helped with formulating recipes.

    Now, with the help of a state-of-the-art micro-brewery in the venues cellar, they have created two core ales with plans to add seasonal and special lines over the coming months.

    Artisan Brew Cos inaugural ales

    are Simple Blonde, a full-flavoured golden pale ale, and ABC IPA, a classic, copper-coloured ale with the aroma of traditional English Fuggles hops.

    As yet, the ales are currently only available at The Three Mile Inn, but there are plans to roll them out across other Tyneside venues owned by Malhotra Group, the pubs owner.

    CREDENCE BREWING Credence is a new microbrewery based in Amble, Northumberland, with a leaning towards balance and drinkability in its beers. The intention of Matt Taylor and Michael Graham is to highlight exciting flavours, appearance, mouthfeel and drinkability.

    Blonde (4.0% abv) is crafted using Northumbrian heritage malt with touches of German malt to add complexity, sweetness and body and hopped with American varieties. Porter (4.4% abv) uses no fewer than 11 varieties of barley, rye and wheat to give a smooth, robust porter, while IPA (5.5% abv) has crisp and clean flavours rolling over one another to provide a long-living taste.

    Credences official launch took place late last month at The Barrels Ale House in Berwick.

    ERRANT BREWERY Errant Brewery opened in Newcastle in October in the arches beneath the King Edward Bridge. The hard-working brewhouse is tucked in among car mechanics and fitness studios amid the regular thunder of overhead trains.

    Brewer Tom Meads had been brewing for more than five years

    for West Berkshire Brewery while Martyn Stockley come from a marketing & PR background.

    Martyn says: Showpiece beers are nice and all but were all about

    beers that people can have pint after pint of. As drinkers were both very different as Tom is fond of an old English bitter, whereas I much prefer a hoppy American IPA. Our beers are usually a fusion of both inputs.

    Tusk (5.5% abv) is a take on a classic English-style IPA; Knight Session Ale (3.5% abv) is the workhorse of the portfolio, and Silent Knight Spiced Porter (4.5% abv) is Errants contribution to the Christmas spirit a classic winter warmer.

    MITHRIL BREWERY Mithril Brewery has had a great year, according to owner Pete Fenwick. I saw no drop in the usually quiet months, he says. The Aldbrough St John (near Darlington) micro is renowned for an ever-changing range of ales that take on current themes. For example, Panto Pale (4.0% abv) has been formulated with the pantomime season in mind. New for 2016 include Try January (3.7% abv) an amber beer to counter the Dry January movement, and Haggis Hunter (3.9% abv) which celebrates Burns Night on January 25.

  • 18 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    AWARDS

    REGIONAL CAMRA PUB OF THE YEAR 2015

    WISHING OUR CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BIG THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN 2015WISHING OUR CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BIG WISHING OUR CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BIG THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT IN 2015

    The Steamboat

    27 MILL DAM, SOUTH SHIELDS, NE33 1EQ (0191) 454 0134

    DOG FRIENDLY PUB

    Whats OnSat: Mr Qs Karaoke

    Sun: Free Pool (3pm - 6pm) / Bingo / QuizMon: Marstons Monday Games Night

    Tue: Killer Pool NightWed: Mr Vs Lets Play Darts

    Thurs: Poker Night

    Sean, Jane & the Quilty Family would like to offer you a warm welcome to the Woodman Inn

    Cask Ales Light Bight MenuLarge Beer Garden Events / Functions

    23 Gilesgate, Durham, DH11 1QW | M: 0191 680 8317www.woodmaninn.co.uk | E: [email protected]

    Find us on:

    Newly Refurbished

    Low Fell, GatesheadThe Black Horse

    For futher information please follow us on facebook and twitter

    Black Horse, Low Fell @BlackHorse_GHD

    166, Kells Lane, Low Fell, Gateshead, NE9 5HY 0191 491 0534 [email protected]

    NUMBER TWENTY2Traditional Alehouse & Canteen

    Enjoy up to 13 REAL ALESplus 9 CONTINENTAL BEERSTo compliment our great ale and beers, we offer 20 wines by the glass plus selected malt whiskies and cognac.

    Sandwiches & Bar Snacks are served Mon - Sat 12pm - 7pm

    www.villagebrewer.co.uk

    Campaigning on behalf of lovers of real ale

    22 Coniscliffe Rd, Darlington01325 354 590

    Open 6 Days A Week: Monday - Saturday

    Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars has been recognising the most outstanding licensees from its 1,100-strong national pub estate. Categories at its annual awards ranged from family-friendly pubs to sports bars and also involved team training, food, responsibility and community categories.

    And the regions pubs did very well, with the eventual Star Pub of the Year being awarded to The Staith House in North Shields. The City Tavern in Newcastle took the Perfect Pint category, while The Mill, Stokesley, Teesside, was awarded Best Bar Team.

    In little over 24 months, The Staith House has risen from a pub that nobody would go near into a top-notch establishment with a soaring reputation, playing a major role in North Shields Fish Quays regeneration. It was also recently voted the countrys best food pub in the Publicans Morning Advertiser Great British Pub Awards.

    Relentless insistence on high quality, locally-sourced ingredients (such as roast loin of fallow deer), plus sell-out taster evenings keep local food enthusiasts interest high. Making their own bread, butter and cheese is also a huge commitment. Beers include Deuchars IPA and Krusovice from the Czech Republic.

    The City Tavern in Newcastle is immediately stylish, but it also manages to fend off any preconceived ideas of exclusiveness. Its friendly, embracing and welcoming. The transformation from its previous pub life has been described by Simon Theakston, chairman of family brewer T&R Theakston, as the best pub refurbishment I have ever seen, which isnt a bad comment to have on your CV.

    Among the eight handpulls are the hugely popular house ales City Tavern Ale and Bar Hound Ale brewed by Caledonian and Theakstons respectively light and quaffing or copper-hued with

    THEYRE ALL STAR PUBS

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 19

    a touch of malt. Whisky and gin are specialities and there are plenty of water bowls and doggy treats for four-legged companions.

    In the 12 months to April 2014, The Mill in Stokesley took 64,000 in drinks. In the same period to April 2015 the figure was just short of 350,000 all down to Team Mill, says licensee Alex Cook. The team concept runs through everything the pub does. Everyone customer, staff or passer-by is involved in Team Mill. Alex Cook even has the words tattooed on his arm, along with the date he took over the pub (28.02.2014).

    The food is high quality with the legendary Teesside parmos on the menu alongside duck breast and Barnsley chop.

    The Mill is a particularly well-designed pub with a sun-trap beer garden and a range of beers that include Theakstons Lightfoot and Black Bull Bitter, leading The Mill to become a destination for folks from an area 30 miles distant, down to the surrounding affluent chimney pots.

    And, you should see the toilets

    City Tavern, Newcastle

    Staith House, North Shields

    The Mill, Stokesley

    T H E M A N O R H O U S E I N N

    EA

    T DRINK SLEEP

    C

    ARTE R WAY HEA

    DS

    The Dyvels Inn BAR & RESTAURANT

    EA

    T DRINK SLEEP

    C O R B R I D G E , N O R T H U MB E

    R L

    A ND

    Booking strongly advised - please quote cheers magazine

    T H E M A N O R H O U S E I N N

    EA

    T DRINK SLEEP

    C

    ARTE R WAY HEA

    DS

    Fresh, Delicious, Local Food Served 12pm - 9pm Mon-Sat & fantastic Sunday Lunches 12pm - 8pm

    The Manor House Inn, Carterway Heads, Northumberland. DH8 9LX Tel: 01207 255 268 Email [email protected]

    1st Thursday of every monthPUB QUIZ

    Every Monday from 5pmSTEAK NIGHT

    FREE bottle of Prosecco when bookingdirect for a minimum of 2 nights at either of our sites.

    Cosy bed & breakfast rooms at great prices

    PLUS FANTASTIC INTRODUCTORY PRICES

    ON ACCOMMODATION AT THE DYVELS - CALL FOR DETAILS

    GREAT DEALS ON ACCOMMODATION

    THE DYVELS INN, STATION ROAD, CORBRIDGE, NORTHUMBERLAND NE45 5AY

    t: 01434 632888 e: [email protected]

    FOOD SERVED 12-9PM MON-SAT

    & 12-4PM SUNDAYS

    EN-SUITE ROOMS

    FREE WI-FI

    HUGE BEER GARDEN

    LOCAL CASK ALE

    FRESH HOMEMADE FOOD

    EXCELLENT BOTTLED

    CRAFT- BEER SELECTION

    Follow us: @thedyvels Like us on facebook

    Like us on facebookFollow us: @ @the_manor_house

  • 20 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    THE TONIC THATS GIN

    The licensed trades current success story is the renaissance of one of the worlds greatest spirits and

    we are at the sharp end, writes Alastair Gilmour

    Its possibly the best reference to gin ever and one of the most memorable lines in movie history. Rick (Humphrey Bogart) sits filling glass after glass, alone in his bar in the wee sma hours. Sam the piano player is trying in vain to get him to stop and go to bed, but there are too many things on his mind. He mumbles: Of all the gin joints in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine

    Gin still has that cachet of being clandestine, hovering outside the law, and a hidden pleasure to be sampled like forbidden fruit. This is despite its history being accurately traced back to the 9th Century medical school at Salerno in Italy which was founded by Benedictine monks.

    Gin has gone into and out of fashion countless times since, and it is going through another huge revival.

    Vicki Ramsay Hammonds degree in chemistry has come in handy for distilling gin at the award-winning pub, Number Twenty 2 in Darlington. Taking up a corner of the pubs microbrewery is a small copper still which uses the mash for making beer to convert into alcohol and gins with the ability to take the breath away.

    The first batch of gin that bar manager Vicki produced contained 22 botanicals, for obvious reasons. This was a spirit to savour on its own without going near a mixer, a slice of lemon or ice.

    There were quite a lot of herbs in it, she says. I used rosemary and thyme and some pomegranate along with the usual botanicals. The second batch we made was completely different using lemon, thyme and rose which was brilliant.

    This is small batch distilling, as in tiny batch,

    with only four bottles coming off the first production, 18 in the second and nine for the third batch which was autumn fruit based with ripe apple and plum to the fore.

    Vicki says: Many distilleries buy vodka in then add flavours, but we make everything from scratch, so its very difficult to produce large amounts at a time. Were also doing it differently every time, such as the first one when we steeped everything in pure alcohol for 48 hours before putting it through the still. Its good making gin in such small batches because we can play around with it. Were making improvements as we go. Ive also learned a lot about making beer from working in the microbrewery.

    The gin has gone down really well with the pubs customers one of them wanted to buy the first four bottles but so far we just want to sell it over the bar (Vicki kept number one though). Another thought it was the worst thing hed ever tasted.

    People like the idea of the batches and bottles being numbered. One customer wants to buy the seventh bottle from the seventh batch 007 007.

    Vicki recommends Fever Tree tonics as mixers but reveals Number Twenty 2 actually makes its own, following the tonic principle but with cucumber and basil.

    Meanwhile in Newcastle, a new venture called The Newcastle Gin Company was set up earlier this year by Durham Distillery and North East leisure company Vaulkhard Group at Bealim House ( formerly Fluid Bar) in the citys Gallowgate. A 400-litre, custom-built copper gin still one of the largest in the country has been installed behind bullet-proof glass on

    SPIRITS

    ONE CUSTOMER WANTS TO BUY THE SEVENTH BOTTLE FROM THE SEVENTH BATCH 007 007

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 21

    SPIRITS

    Its a dogs life:Frank gets ready to enjoy his bowl of Woof beer

    Right: Finley is thinking, Hurry up with that bottle opener.

    the ground floor of the multi-storey venue.Durham Distillery is based in Langley Park

    on the outskirts of Durham City. Its pride and joy is Lily, a handmade, 400-litre copper pot still.All stills have to have a name or a reference mark registered with HMRC Lily was born in Portugal with the number 7713. The still has a gin basket, which holds some of the botanicals, and a worm tub a traditional cooling system which turns the vapour into gin.

    Its powered by a steam generator which heats the mix of botanicals, the alcohol and spring water, producing 200 litres at a time with each batch taking several days to make.

    Elsewhere, Whitbarrow Nature Reserve near Kendal in Cumbria is one of only a few places in England with abundant natural regeneration of juniper, so what better place to source the prized berries for The Lakes Distillerys recent annual juniper foraging day. The Lakes Distillery (which has its head office in Gosforth, Newcastle) has permission to use wild Cumbrian juniper in the production of gin, thanks to its close relationship with Cumbria Wildlife Trust, one of the distillerys local charity partners.

    As well as juniper, of the 14 in total botanicals, there are six found locally which include meadowsweet from Dubwath Silver Meadows just a mile from the distillery as well as local bilberry, heather, hawthorn and mint.

    Sunderland-based Poetic License Independent Small Batch Distillery launched its range of craft spirits into the market at Londons Boutique Bar Show in September to an enthusiastic reception from gin experts. The distillery is based within the Poetic License bar, owned by Tavistock Leisure which opened in March 2015 near Roker Pier. Its 500-litre pot still, Gracie, is situated in full view of customers.

    Poetic Licences three launch products have been in development since the turn of the year to perfect the recipes; Northern Dry Gin (43.2% abv), Old Tom Gin (41.6% abv) and Graceful Vodka at 40.4% abv. Northern Dry Gin is a regional twist with a big kick of juniper as well as some more contemporary additions, such as green cardamom and Persian lime for powerful floral and citrus flavours. In contrast, Old Tom Gin is aged with oak and its sweeter style is achieved entirely with botanicals such as hibiscus and rose which also impart colour to give the spirit a rose-gold tinge. Graceful Vodka gained its name from its glorious smoothness.

    As for the Poetic License name, Mark Hird, managing director of Tavistock Hospitality, says: Poetic License stems from the want to do things differently. Being independent, we have the freedom deviate from conventional rules, often resulting in something a bit weird and a bit wonderful, but thats the joy of it.

    As Sam the piano player in Ricks Bar sang: The fundamental things apply, as time goes by.

    Vicki Ramsay Hammond at Number Twenty 2 in Darlington with bottles of

    bespoke gin and vodka (G and V). Photo: Peter Skelton

  • 22 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    Punk rocks: Simon and Dawn Miles, Anarchy Brew Co

    Units 10-11, Blaydon Business Centre, Cowen Road, Blaydon on Tyne. NE21 5TWTel: (0191) 447 6543 Email: [email protected] www.rebrickbrewery.com

    HERITAGE RANGE MYSTICAL RANGE

    GREAT BEER LOCALLY BREWED

    A companys brand creates and maintains a reputation for its customers. But it extends further than sticking a logo on everything; a strong brand interacts with customers, suppliers and employees alike. So, it can make a business stand out in a crowded, competitive market.

    When Morpeth-based Anarchy Brew Co decided its A-logo striking as it is needed a bit of help, owners Simon and Dawn Miles took a long, hard look around at what was being done elsewhere. Eventually they turned to Marc Ross and Jonny Seal at Dirty Hand, a multi-disciplined Newcastle design company that works very effectively in the regions leisure industry.

    It all kicked off when we had to change our name from Brew Star, says Simon Miles. Another brewing company thought Brew Star was too

    similar their own name and started to get heavy, so Anarchy was born.

    We never had the opportunity to bring changes into the new name because we were so busy. We knew what we wanted, but had no time to think.

    Simon and Dawn had seen Dirty Hands work at Dat Bar in Newcastle and thought it was the way to go. When client and designer met they felt comfortable with each other and understood what was required which is vital.

    Simon says: We got ideas from the guys who work here at the brewery we involved everybody. Marc sat and listened and understood what we wanted right from the beginning. We felt a synergy.

    One strong idea that emerged straight away was that the branding would have a Punk aesthetic using

    IN BRAND WE TRUST

    Like-minded people have created memorable styling for a North East brewery, writes

    Alastair Gilmour

    BRANDING

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 23

    BRANDING

    Product placement: The Anarchy range. Below, Marc Ross, right, and Johnny Seal

    CHRISTMAS MENUS OUT NOWFOR TABLE, MEETINGS & FUNCTION

    BOOKINGS PLEASE CALL01434 608013

    THE HEART OF NORTHUMBERLAND5 Market Street, Hexham, NE46 3NS Tel: 01434 608013

    www.thehearthexham.com Follow us on Facebook & Twitter

    Dr Syntax Inn

    TM

    BarFood

    FunctionRoom

    ChildrenWelcome

    PCar Park

    TM

    Merry Christmas

    Would like to wish all of its customers old and new a very

    New Ridley, Stocksfi eld, Northumberland NE43 7RG. Tel: 01661 842 383

    BeerGarden

    newspaper-style typography with a DIY look involving headlines, intros, cross-heads and cut-and-paste, torn-up lettering.

    We started off with a brainstorming session, says Marc Ross. We all sat together and got to know what we were all about. It wasnt just us going away and coming back with something. Simon had a lot of ideas in his head but wasnt sure what was possible.

    All the labels have funny little stories; everybody sits and reads them as theyre drinking. That was the idea all along.

    It wasnt just the more obvious beer labels that got the Dirty Hands treatment, but the colour, shape and size of the bottles themselves, backed by posters, t-shirts, advertising and web design. On the labelling, small

    news story paragraphs describe a little of what to expect inside the bottle, but arent tasting notes in the traditional sense. The wording fades, smudges and dances in and out of focus like passages in a scrunched-up newspaper would do. One thing

    is, the branding is memorable. Crucially, so is the beer.

    Now, not only do bottle shops and distributors want Anarchy beer, but the posters and merchandising to

    boot with one national company requesting framed

    images for their new offices.Marc Ross admits he was a huge

    beer fan anyway, but only got a taste of what brewing was all about when he met Simon and Dawn. He says: Anarchy was a dream client; we were on the same wavelength, and it was a good, fun project.

  • 24 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    World wine expert Oz Clarke was in Newcastle recently, conducting a wine masterclass and a food matching dinner in the company of North East-based Guest Wines. During a preview conversation with Cheers he outlined a handful of wines that would sit well on the Christmas dinner table.

    Shiraz from all over the world is still tremendous, he said, and everyone should try English sparkling wines this year. But dont forget others such as Argentinian Malbec from the Uco Valley or

    Beaujolais when you dont want a big beast of a wine.

    Garnacha from Southern Spain is terrific not the big oak ones, but those from old vines that are fermented in concrete vats with not an oak barrel near them. Bone dry Asti Spumante as cold as your fridge will allow is great with Christmas pud when everyone is exhausted and needs waking up. And finish off with a rich Liqueur Muscat from Australia.

    We invited a selection of the regions wine merchants to suggest one or two from their lists:

    MICHAEL JOBLING WINESKaleau Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (7.74). A great mouth-filling, approachable wine which is full of flavour. Stanton & Killeen Rutherglen Muscat, Australia (13.50). This is liquid Christmas pudding in a bottle.Tel: 0191 378 4554 www.michaeljoblingwines.com

    GUEST WINESHerbert Hall Sparkling Brut 2013, Kent, England (12% abv). Lots of bubbles with fresh lemon cooked pastries with hints of red apple running through from beginning to the end a great all-rounder with or without food. Great for Christmas Day. Herbert Hall is a small producer in the Kent countryside with just nine acres, growing only Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes and producing just two sparkling wines a white blend of the three varieties and a ros.www.guestwines.com

    WINES TO INSPIRE

    AT CHRISTMAS

    FESTIVE WINES

    Rising SunTheCRAWCROOK

    Opening hours: Monday to Friday 12-23:30Saturday to Sunday 12-midnight

    Bank Top, Ryton, Tyne and Wear NE400191 413 3316

    We would like to wish all ofour customers and friends a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

    Christmas Markets 19th & 20th December

    10-5pm Saturday & 11-5pm Sunday

    3 course Christmas Party Menusnow available for just 24.95 includes

    a glass of Prossecco

    Christmas Day lunch 34.95 - 4 courseKids and small portions 16.95

    -------------------------------------------------

    Live Entertainment in December Friday 4th Dec - The MudskippersFriday 11th - Stormy Mondays band

    Friday 18th - The Spiral Kings.All bands start from 9pm

    Willi guitar Watson live everySunday from 5-19:30

    New Years Day The Pretty Weeds live from 2pm

    -------------------------------------------------

    Steak night every night includingSunday evening

    Sunday night from 6pm we haveTapas, Pies and peas with discounts & o ersSunday lunch 1, 2 or 3 courses available.

    Happy Tuesdays 6-9pmour version of happy hour.

    Cocktails

    Christmas at The Rising Sun

    Expert choice: Oz Clarke

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 25

    REHILLS OF JESMONDMasi Tupungato, Valle de Uco Malbec-Corvina (14.5% abv, 22.59) uses an ancient technique of obtaining greater concentrations of aromas and flavours from its grapes during the drying process. This style was first developed in Italy and taken to Argentina. Rugged tannins, stalky berry fruit with herbal aromas and a dry, crisp palate make a fantastic wine.Jesmond Road, Newcastle NE2 1LB. Tel: 0191 281 4499.

    THE PIP STOPNyetimber Classic Cuve English Sparkling Wine (12% abv, 10% discount from 27.99 to 25.19). Aged six years, this is rich and toasty but with great freshness. The palate has complex fruit flavours and exceptional length.McPhersons Shiraz Mourvedre from Australia (8.07, down from 9.49). A fantastic wine that recently received its fourth gold medal. A popular drink in the chilly months of winter, its full-bodied with rich dark berry, leather and spice flavours.The Old Garage, Maiden Law, Durham DH7 0QS. www.thepipstop.co.uk

    CHEERS CHOICEWe like the juicy mix of dark fruit and peppery spice in this Chilean Malbec (13% abv, 8.99) from Bin 21 in Hexham initially attracted by what we thought was Steve McQueen on his TT 650 Triumph in The Great Escape, the classic Christmas movie. Its actually a depiction of Chilean revolutionary Che Guevaras 1947 Model 18 Norton, nicknamed La Poderosa (The Powerful One). Incidentally, this red wine is a fantastic match with white meat. www.bin21.com

    FESTIVE WINES

  • 26 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    GIFTS FEATURE

    WYLAM BREWERY MINI KEGSFive litres of beer awesomeness in your very own mini keg. The brewers at Wylam have been busy filling these mini wonders with Angel, Winter Magick,Collingwood, Red Kite and JAKEHEAD!!!You can find them whilst stocks last at Mmm and Glug (Grainger Market, Newcastle), Rehills (Jesmond)and Coppers 8 till 8 (Gosforth)Priced from 22www.wylambrewery.co.uk

    THE FEATHERSBeer and food night, Friday February 5 2016Enjoy a continental evening of food and beer.Get your ticket now for a fantastic evening of wonderful beers and food. You get one of each of the three dishes with drinks included in the price

    of your ticket. A pint of Kozel 4% Czech Larger with our versions of Czech specialities. Beer cheese, pickled herrings and pigs head terrine with rye bread and gherkins.Kozel is an easy-to-drink, well balanced and flavoursome Czech beer. Theres nothing quite like the authentic flavour of Kozel, an award-winner brewed in the Bohemian village of Velk Popovice from the finest Saaz hops, Pilsner malted barley and soft forest spring water. Its well-balanced flavour and delicious hoppy

    aroma have remained the same since 1874.A pint of Pilsner Urquell 4.4% abv. with pheasant schnitzel, sauerkraut and mushroom sauce.The first batch was brewed in Plzen in Bohemia on October 5 1842. Five weeks later, on November 11, the beer

    was first drunk in the town. A golden beer the worlds first golden beer was fresh, clear and refreshing with a hint of caramel sweetness and a fragrant, balanced hop bitterness. It was an immediate success and a proud moment for the city of Plzen. Since that day the recipe has remained the same.18 per advance ticket bought before December 24.20 tickets sold after Christmas, places strictly limited so get your tickets early.thefeathers.netHedley on the Hill, Stocksfield, Northumberland NE43 7SW / 01661 843607

    CAMERONS BREWERY

    A new book charting the history of Camerons Brewery in Hartlepool would make the perfect stocking-filler for your beer-loving loved ones. The History of the Lion Brewery has been compiled by Marie-Louise McKay, manager of Camerons Brewery Visitor Centre, and was released as the brewery hit its landmark 150th year anniversary.The Lion Brewery is one of the oldest businesses in Hartlepool and the book charts its full history from 1835 when William Waldon first came to the town. There are references to owners, take-overs, beers, brands, adverts, machinery, transport and the staff.The book also lists the other breweries that once existed in West Hartlepool and the Headland.Marie-Louise (pictured) said: I started working at the Visitor Centre in 2004 and immediately

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 27

    GIFTS FEATURE

    @COPPERS

    COPPERS CHRISTMAS RAFFLEGET INVOLVED IN WITH OUR ANNUAL RAFFLE AND BE IN WITH THE CHANCE OF WINNING SOME FANTASTIC

    PRIZES, ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO A LOCAL CHARITY

    1ST PRIZE - CHRISTMAS SURVIVAL HAMPER

    2ND PRIZE - SINK THE BISMARK (41%)

    3RD PRIZE - TNP (32%)

    4TH PRIZE - GIN PACK

    FOLLOW US @COPPERSGOSFORTH

    AND FIND US ON FACEBOOK

    OPEN 8AM - 8PM

    FOLLOW US

    17 PRINCES ROAD GOSFORTH NE3 5TT TEL 0191 217 0043

    COMING SOON COPPERS NEW PRIVATE TASTING LOUNGE! SAMPLE

    SOME OF THE BEST BEERS

    THE NORTH EAST HAS TO OFFER

    WE STOCK LOCAL SO YOU CAN SHOP LOCAL

    CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY. REFER TO FACEBOOK FOR OUR CHRISTMAS OPENING TIMES.

    YOUR LOCAL STORE,NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS

    #SHOPLOCAL

    CHRISTMAS GIFTS NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE

    GIFT PACKS FROM YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL BREWERIES AVAILABLE FROM 9

    BESPOKE AND CAN-TASTIC HAMPERS DESIGNED FOR ANY BUDGET

    PICK FROM OUR WIDE RANGE OF GINS AND CREATE YOUR OWN GIN PACK

    YOUR LOCAL STORE,

    CHRISTMAS GIFTS NOW

    2ND PRIZE - SINK THE BISMARK (41%)

    FREELOCAL DELIVERY

    GREAT PERSONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE

    noticed the wealth of historical data there. I knew that if I was interested then other people would be too, so I began to collate the information.Its taken a few years to put together, ensuring the validity of facts and gathering pictorial evidence but Im extremely pleased with the finished product.The History of the Lion Brewery (12) is available from Camerons Brewery Visitor Centre, Stockton Street, Hartlepool TS24 7QS and Atkinsons Print in Church Street, Hartlepool.Alternatively, it can be ordered direct from the brewery: 01429 868686 or [email protected]

    BLACK SHEEP BREWERYBlack Sheep Brewery has so much to offer any real ale fan, whether

    its your perfect case, a bespoke hamper or a tour of the working brewery. True to their name, they are always

    thinking outside the box and trying out new brews in their perfectly scaled down five-barrel micro-brewery complete with Yorkshire Square fermenter. The latest is a range of specially crafted 330ml bottled beers inspired by founder Paul Theakstons brewing journey. Available online or from the Sheepy Shop.www.blacksheepbrewery.com

    BRIDGE TAVERN, NEWCASTLEYou can takea little piece of this multi award-winning boozer home with you.These Bridge Tavern Growlers are a canny Christmas gift.Beautifully crafted in glass, they hold two litres (thats two-and-a-

    half pints in old money).They can be purchased empty for 10 or you can have your growler filledat the pub with your favourite tipple just add the price of

    the beer theres a terrific choice.Tel 0191 261 9966 www.thebridgetavern.com

    BEAMISH HALL THE STABLESFeel free to stock up on Christmas

    cheer atThe Stables, Beamish Hall, with mini-casks and bottled gift packs available over the

    bar alongside vouchers covering Beamish Hall, The Eden Tearooms and Beamish Wild, so people can pick whatever they want.The Stables, Beamish, Stanley, Tyne and Wear DH9 0RZ

    REHILLS BOLLINGER SPECTRE 007 CHAMPAGNE LIMITED EDITION VINTAGE 2009Licence to Thrill! specialist food and

    wine merchants Rehills of Jesmond, are stocking a fabulous gift for those Bond fans out there.A limited edition James Bond presentation of

    Bollinger Vintage 2009. The bottle comes enclosed in a sleek black and silver Carr Basset cool box. The metal chill box is inspired by James Bonds classic tuxedo and elegance. Perfect for taking fizz on special missions.Rehills 245-249 Jesmond Rd, Newcastle NE2 1LB

    TYNE BANK BREWERY Tyne Bank Brewerys barrel-aged beers, gift packs or mini kegs would

    make the perfect gift for any ale lover whilst a 10 or 20-litre bag-in-the box ale would certainly bring the festive spirit to any party. Tyne Bank ales

    can be found in the best Newcastle real ale pubs and bottle outlets as well as from the brewerys shop, open 9-5 weekdays and located at the Ouseburn, Newcastle. 0191 265 2828. tynebankbrewery.co.uk

  • 28 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    ANGEL INN53 CROSSGATE

    DURHAM

    12 CROSSGATEDURHAM CITY0191 386 4621

    JOHN DUCK91A CLAYPATH

    DURHAM

    2015 CAMRA DURHAM TOWN PUB OF THE YEAR2015 CAMRA NORTH EAST PUB OF THE YEAR RUNNER UP

    2015 TRIP ADVISOR CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE

    LOCAL REAL ALES HOME COOKED FOOD

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 29

    THE OFFICE

    MORPETHS REAL ALE & CIDER HOUSE

    ACTON ALES BREWERY TAP

    e Old Toll House, Castle Square, MorpethOPENING TIMES: MON TO SUN 17.00 TO 22.30

    NO MUSIC JUST GREAT BEER

    PUBS

    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

    Telephone: 01670 813 345

    OPENING TIMES Mon - Sun 12pm - 23pm Sun Lunch - 12pm - 3pm Restaurant Monday - Saturday 12.00 pm - 8pm

    INN WITH THE NEWW

    e get a bit frustrated with the constant moaning about pubs failing, only to reopen as a Tesco Express or

    retirement home. This month the mantra is 29

    pubs a week are closing, next week itll be another figure, and while its a real worry, lets look at the positives and what some people are doing to keep our pubs alive and kicking.

    PLEASED TO MEET YOU Pleased To Meet You on

    Newcastles High Bridge was a fantastic addition to the citys craft beer and spirits sector. Its a pub that makes you feel good about yourself.

    Business has been so successful that expansion into next-door premises, downstairs and upstairs was inevitable. The new extension is high quality in every sense.

    Parent group Ladhar Leisure has a reputation for top-notch development with its pubs winning design awards and plaudits for its beer, food and cocktails.

    Were focusing on what we do best, says manager Tom Proud. Quality in everything from craft beers to the cocktail bar, a menu overseen by David Kennedy, and even a new outside area called The Allotment complete with potting sheds.

    Huge changes include burrowing out the downstairs area, moving the kitchen upstairs and developing sideways along High Bridge. Ladhar Leisure has been transforming the citys leisure scene with stylishly appropriate venues such as Lady Greys, Hop & Cleaver and Red House. Plans to transform White Hart Yard due to reach fruition during 2016 will raise the profile of great beer and terrific food even higher. Its an exciting prospect.

    ???: Pleased To Meet You

  • 30 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    The Centurion present their annual NYE PARTY with the Happy Cats Live Tickets on Sale NOW!

    Tel: 0191 2616611www.centurion-newcastle.com

    Grand Central Station, Neville St,Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5DG

    6 Real Ales always on tap.FOOD SERVED DAILY

    Full English served from 6amMonday - Friday in C C Hudsons

    New luxury barfor private hire

    C

    M

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    CM

    MY

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    K

    three kings Advert.pdf 1 30/10/2014 18:33

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 31

    PUBS

    Stella Road, Ryton NE21 4LU

    Tel: 0191 413 2921Hill Top, Dipton, Stanley DH9 9YJ

    Tel: 01207 571040

    www.michelangelohotel.co.uk

    CHRISTMAS BOOKINGSNOW BEING TAKEN

    1 COURSE 12.95 - 2 COURSES 15.95 - 3 COURSES 19.95ALSO NOW BOOKING FOR NEW YEARS EVEOPENING 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

    Bringing a new look, with new menus, a new chefand 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.

    Bringing a new look, with new menus, a new chefBringing a new look, with new menus, a new chef

    A warm welcome to customers old and new

    THE HEART OF NORTHUMBERLAND PUB & KITCHEN The long-closed Heart of All England pub in Hexham has undergone a 100,000 transformation and a name change. The stylish Heart of Northumberland has brought something different to the town after experienced pub management team Jo and Alan Phillipson fulfilled a long-held ambition by purchasing the freehold earlier this year then set about stripping the place out and rebuilding the fabric and a reputation.

    The pub appears more condensed that it was in its previous life but a new lounge and dining area take up the back of the building (sadly not obvious on a quick lunchtime visit).

    Large dining-style tables dominate the front room, though there is upholstered seating in the short leg of its L-shape and it has quickly become a popular and handy meeting place and an asset to Hexham. Exposed brick and timber and a large fireplace bring

    tradition to the fore while wallpaper depicting birds of paradise provides curiosity value a touch of fun and a talking point.

    An extremely impressive bar line-up features Allendale Summit (4.8% abv), West Hefweisen (4.0% abv), Hadrian Border Secret Kingdom (4.3% abv), Timothy Taylor Landlord (4.3% abv), Sierra Nevada IPA (5.6% abv) and Wylam Gold Tankard (4.0% abv).

    Factor in Stuart Donaldson, formerly of Newcastles Hotel du Vin, Malmaison and Langley Castle, who heads up the kitchen, it adds up to one serious venture.

    EYE ON THE TYNE Hartlepool-based Camerons Brewery has acquired yet another Newcastle outlet, following its takeover of the Head of Steam group of pubs two years ago. A deal for the Eye On The Tyne includes the purchase of the lease from Suffolk-based Greene King, plus the transfer of current staff which protects all jobs at the Newcastle Quayside site.

    Camerons Brewery director and general manager Chris Soley said: We know what an important social hub the Quayside has always been

    for Newcastle and we have been chasing an outlet there for some time. There are some really good operators on the Quayside, and we can run the Eye on the Tyne to further enhance the consumer experience in the area. We inherit a really good team of people and are going to run the pub exactly as it is until we really understand what our customers want.

    This latest acquisition is one of a number were planning over the coming months as part of our five-year plan, which involves growing the pub estate as well as our beer brands.

    The Heart of Northumberland Eye On The Tyne

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 3232 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    PUBS

    FAMOUSLY LOCALFAMOUSLY LOCALFAMOUSLY LOCAL1 Gadwall Road Houghton le Spring DH4 5NL

    Telephone: (0191) 584 8844 Email: [email protected]

    Seasons Greetings to all our customers

    THE RED KITE The Red Kite at Winlaton Mill, Tyne & Wear, is open following a 275,000 refurbishment and the creation of 20 jobs. The pub is the Leamside Ale Companys fifth pub in the North East and owner Daryl Frankland says he is determined to bring the groups award winning standards to the tired local to transform it into an asset for the community.

    The Red Kite is unrecognisable and much more comfortable and cosy, says Daryl Frankland, whose other pubs include the multi award-winng Kings Arms in Sunderland, The Courtyard at Washington Arts Centre, the Three Horseshoes at Leamside, Durham (which has its own microbrewery) and the Royal George at Old Shotton Village, Durham.

    Food is a major feature at the Red Kite with the emphasis on providing restaurant-quality menus at affordable pub prices and, of course, a choice of six cask ales.

    Daryl says: As at our other pubs, well make all our meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. And, with the exception of our bread and ice-cream, everything from the chips to the sauces is made from scratch on the premises.

    The Red Kite once upon a time The Golden Lion is now an attractive feature on the A694 and a welcoming spot for ramblers on the Derwent Walk. Dogs receive a

    warm welcome too. It is part of a 3.7m investment by Heineken-owned Star Pubs & Bars in Newcastle and the surrounding area this year.

    Chris Jowsey, trading director at Star Pubs & Bars, says: The Leamside Ale Company has been delivering great standards, great food and great service to North East pub goers for many years and were delighted that they are joining us in reviving the fortunes of the Red Kite.

    TWICE BREWED INN Twice Brewed Inn on the B6318 Military Road that connects Newcastle and Carlisle has been undergoing refurbishment. Work on the pub near Bardon Mill in Northumberland will have just been completed ground floor at least by the time Cheers hits the streets. The new regime is managed by Andy and Sue Smith who also run the Red Lion in Newbrough. Andy was also head chef at Langley Castle, so hes a man who

    knows his way around a menu. In fact, thats where some of the differences will be noticed first apart from the fact that the old bar and lounge have been transformed into one and the counter itself has been slightly relocated. Real ales continue to pour with an emphasis on localness, including a little bird tells us regular representation from Allendale Brewery.

    Twice Brewed Inn, set amongst some of the most breathtaking scenery in England and standing in the shadows of Steel Rigg without doubt one of the most dramatic parts of Hadrians Wall is extremely popular with walkers and visitors there and the other Roman sites at Vindolanda, Housesteads and The Roman Army Museum.

    The next move is to convert the current 16 rooms into 18 all en-suite to cater for weary hikers. Hopefully theyll be hungry and thirsty too.

    The Red Kite

    Twice Brewed Inn

  • www.cheersnortheast.co.uk / CHEERS / 33

    #32 OF 43 CREATE THOSE MOMENTS SPICED PEAR & BRANDY PORTER 4.2%

    @Sonnet43BrewHouseSonnet43BrewHouse @Sonnet43Brew

    0191 3773039 | www.sonnet43.com | [email protected]

    Sonnet 43 Brew House, Durham Road, Coxhoe, County Durham, DH6 4HX

    Enjoy this seasonal beer at a purveyor of fine ale near you this festive period!Enjoy this seasonal beer at a purveyor of fine ale near you this festive period!

    A uniquely brewed porter with a big fl avour bill, brown in colour with notes of brandy, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and fi nished with an added twist of spiced pear.

    The complex malt bill contributes to a good head retention and subtle roast fl avour.

    S43 Ad 210x280 Nov 2015.indd 1 30/11/2015 14:54

  • 34 / CHEERS / www.cheersnortheast.co.uk

    FUN STUFF

    Spotted in Amsterdam. Weve never seen the word cissy (OK, spelt sissy here) since we stopped reading the Beano in the 1970s. Its actually a high-class department store.

    Wed love to give you all the details of the Tyne Idols and Cheers North East real ale tour on December 12 but theres one problem. Its a mystery tour. The first tour of 2016 Thursday January 28 is also cloaked in secrecy. The only thing we can divulge is that each trip involves up to three good ale pubs and a microbrewery but heres a tip for the December one, wear an outlandish Christmas creation. Best keep an eye on www.tyneidols.com

    A MAN WALKS INTO A BAR IN THE HIGHLANDS...AND ASKS FOR A PINT OF IPA AND A GIN AND TONIC. THATLL BE 1.50, SIR, SAYS THE BARMAN. THE CUSTOMER LOOKS BEMUSED, WALKS BACK TO HIS SEAT AND SAYS TO HIS WIFE: ITS VERY CHEAP IN HERE. ITS ALSO VERY QUIET, SHE SAYS. HE FINISHES HIS PINT AND GOES BACK FOR ANOTHER ROUND. THATLL BE 1.50, SIR, SAYS THE BARMAN. THE CUSTOMER SITS DOWN AGAIN, BAFFLED AT THE PRICES, THEN GOES BACK FOR ANOTHER. THATLL BE 1.50, SIR, SAYS THE BARMAN. THE CUSTOMER FINALLY SAYS:

    YOU CHARGE 1.50 FOR A PINT AND A GIN AND TONIC, ITS A LOVELY PUB AND THE ONLY ONE IN THE VILLAGE, SO WHERE ARE ALL YOUR OTHER CUSTOMERS? OH, SAYS THE BARMAN, LOOKING AT HIS WATCH, THEYLL BE WAITING FOR THE HAPPY HOUR.

    SIGN OF THE TIMES

    IDOL HANDS

    1. Until 1911, Chinese males had to wear what as a symbol of submission?2. In which hit song from the mid 1970s would you find a brimstone baritone anti-

    cyclone rolling stone preacher?3. What is Harry Potters favourite kind of beer?4. Who has been awarded the Golden Raspberry for worst actress a record five times?5. Which 15th century Italian artists name means little barrel?6. Which early 1960s Liverpool band took its name from the title of a classic Western

    film starring John Wayne?7. The name of which Italian pasta type stems from the word meaning a knot in wood?8. What did Adolf Hitler call his German Shepherd dog?9. Which fish is the most widely eaten by humans?10. What type of creature is a dugite?11. What is the name of Mos cat in The Simpsons?12. Where did Billy Butlin open his first holiday camp in 1936?

    TWELVE QUIZ QUESTIONS TO GET ONE OVER ON YOUR FRIENDS. OR NOTTHE DIRTY DOZEN

    QUIZ ANSWERS 1 Pigtails. 2 Blinded By The Light (by Manfred Manns Earth Band, written by Bruce Springsteen). 3 Butterbeer. 4 Madonna. 5 Botticelli. 6 The Searchers. 7 Gnocchi (from the word nocchio). 8 Blondi. 9 Herring. 10 A snake. 11 Mr Snookums. 12 Skegness.

    ???

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    A-Z PUB GUIDE

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

    THE OLDE SHIPS INNDurham Road, East Rainton, DH5 9QT t: 0191 5840944

    THE OLD WELL INN The Bank, Barnard CastleDL12 8PH t: 01833 690 130

    THE PLOUGHMountsett, Burnopfield, NE16 6B