SUMMER OF PUB Despite these not being the easiest of times, or perhaps because of it, we all need cheering up. Consequently, after a two year break, CAMRA is reviving its Summer of Pub campaign. It was officially launched on the May Bank Holiday. CAMRA’s National Chairman, Nik Antona, explained, “The concept behind a Summer of Pub is really quite simple: it’s that the easiest way to support pubs is to use them. That is why we will be working with partners throughout the summer to highlight fantastic events taking place and continually rally people down to their local. Pubs have been through a horrendous two years of lockdowns and restrictions and need help to get back on their feet. At the end of the day, you don’t need to be a campaigner to make a difference; let’s just celebrate a return to normal this summer by raising a glass to the trade!” Summer of Pub will run until the Bank Holiday on 29 August.
CAMRA has created an interactive map to show you which pubs, clubs and taprooms near you are running events, ranging from quizzes and live music to jubilee parties and tap takeovers. Just go to https://summerofpub.camra.org.uk/. Events will be held in connection with a number of events, including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee bank holiday weekend (2 to 5 June), Volunteers’ Week (1 to 7 June) and Beer Day Britain (15 June). You can, of course, organise your own events, such as having a Bromley pub walk (see page 26). CAMRA organised beer festivals are also returning. In this edition you will find adverts for the Thurrock, Ealing and Beckenham festivals, not forgetting the Great British Beer Festival (2 to 5 August).
For this year, CAMRA is supporting the Good Beer Company in promoting Thank Brew, a limited edition 3.5% ABV pale ale, which is the official beer of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The recipe has been developed by Fergus Fitzgerald of Adnams and it is intended that it will be produced by a number of participating breweries. It will be available in pubs in June and all profits from its sale will go to good causes. For more information, go to www.thegoodbeerco.co.uk/thankbrew.
In the spirit of inclusivity, CAMRA is also partnering the Ask for Clive organisation in promoting Pub Pride on 27 May. This will be a night on which venues can celebrate their local LGBTQ+ community and mark the start of Pride Month.