We are a sub-branch of Derby Branch, formed in March 2012, now covering the postcode areas of DE6 1xx, DE6 2xx, DE6 3xx & DE6 5xx.
Our monthly meetings are more of a social event as a meeting. With the meetings being held in a different pub each time it is a great chance to try somewhere new and sample some different ales. Everyone welcome whether you are a CAMRA member or not
Following a hiatus due to the pandemic I'm pleased to report that voting has concluded for the 2022 Pub of the year, Club of the year and Cider pub of the year with a good selection of well deserving venues.
It has been agreed that Club of the year and Cider pub of the year will now become regular annual awards reflecting some of the diversity in our area.
Certificates are due to be presented shortly to the well deserving winners.
Cheers!
Dave Etheridge
Branch Chair
As many chose to welcome in 2022 at our local pubs and bars it’s time to look forward to what the year could bring for hospitality businesses.
The dominant factor will be COVID and the impact of new strains, rules and guidance from the government. Last year’s shutdowns and restrictions have seen many venues close for good, future housing and flats no doubt.
We have been very fortunate within Ashbourne and the surrounding villages that we have only lost one venue which is approximately 2% of the venues in our area vs a national average of 7%. However, even one business closure is one too many. One closure is the loss of a family’s livelihood, loss of employment for their staff, loss of trade to their suppliers and another empty building adorning our high streets.
The reliefs from the government were welcome but fell short of what was required. Rent and bills still needed to be paid although it’s pleasing to report that several breweries and pub companies did offer rent reductions. Whether that will need to be repaid remains to be seen.
Many venues chose these closures as a time to do some decorating, a time to ‘smarten the place up’ and a chance to diversify with take away and delivery services. This was summed up perfectly by the Ashbourne traders deliver services during lock down.
We have seen new outdoor seating areas pop up in beer gardens and car parks and as venues reopened we have seen a change in what is being offered. We have seen a resurgence in music, new food offerings, tasting sessions and much more to entice us out of our living rooms and back into bars, pubs and restaurants.
“But is it safe?” is a question I hear frequently. The answer, in most cases, is a resounding YES. Venue operators have gone to great lengths, and expense, to make your visit as safe as possible. Many venues insist their staff take Lateral Flow Tests, have stricter cleaning regimes, more space between tables and the addition of partitions where required. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask.
So how do we protect hospitality and ensure our local stays open? Its simple, just use them!
Pop in for a pint or a coffee. Pop in for a light snack or celebrate a birthday or anniversary in one of our excellent pubs and restaurants.
For the CAMRA branch we are hoping to restart the annual Ashbourne Beer & Cider festival in 2022, watch this space!
Dave Etheridge
Branch Chairman