Microbrewery recognised for community work

A MICROBREWERY in Henley has reached the finals of a pub industry award for community work.

Brakspear is a finalist in the British Beer and Pub Association’s heart of the community award.

Judges were impressed by the company’s partnership with Henley in Bloom to create a new ale, Blooming Marvellous, which raised £800 for the group.

They also praised the new Club to Pub Swim in Henley, which involved another new beer called Two Bells, and the company’s involvement in the Friends of the Earth’s Bee Cause campaign.

Tom Davies, chief executive of Brakspear, said: “We’re delighted to be shortlisted for this award, which reflects our growing support for the local community over the last couple of years.

“The opening of our microbrewery on Bell Street last year has allowed us to brew special-edition beers, such as Blooming Marvellous and Two Bells, in support of local events and causes.

“We’re grateful to the local groups such as the Henley in Bloom committee and Henley Swim, who have worked with us so enthusiastically, and we look forward to partnering with them and others in future.”

The winner will be announced on Wednesday.