Back our pubs when they reopen, urges Ripon brewer

In common with the whole sector, the brewery at Melmerby, near Ripon has suffered a steep downturn in business over lockdown, so the company will be toasting the lifting of restrictions with its new Grapefruit Pale, Cherry Plum Porter, and Pepper Pils.

Managing director Nick Stafford, who founded the business from a shed in his in-laws’ garden, said: “We have been so incredibly thankful for the public support we have had, and the hundreds of people who started buying online from the brewery to support us.

“But now is the time for us all to support the pubs – whilst following the social distancing rules. The hospitality industry is the lifeblood of many communities and is currently on it knees. Lockdown has left up to 20 per cent of licensed premises on the brink of closure – that’s 55,000 pubs.

“It’s time to support the pubs with everything we have got – and get out and drink your locally produced beer at your local pub!”