Rosey Prince, Marc Craddock & Kerry Page

23rd June 2009

Rosey's running again! - and this time she's got colleagues Kerry Page and Marc Craddock running with her, so please support the Timothy Taylor's Team, in The Great North Run. They will be running this half marathon (13.1 miles!) in support of local hospice MANORLANDS.
Manorlands staff provide vital palliative care to patients and support to their families. Timothy Taylor & Co. Ltd is part of the Manorlands
challenge Committee, which has raised £173,000 since 2004, but this year Manorlands Hospice needs to raise £1.3million, just to meet running costs.
If you want to know more about Sue Ryder Care and Manorlands Hospice, you can visit the Sue Ryder Care website at www.suerydercare.org.

If you would like to help, you can either send a cheque, payable to 'Sue Ryder Care - Manorlands Hospice' direct to the Brewery at:- Timothy Taylor & Co. Ltd, Knowle Spring Brewery, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD21 1AW, or you can donate on-line by visiting the 'Justgiving' page www.justgiving.com/timothytaylorsteam

Chris Doherty at the Brown Cow, Bingley

19 May 2009

Having spent over 20 years working in different parts of Europe Chef Chris Doherty returned home and after a spell working in Bradford he has now taken over as Head Chef at the Brown Cow, Bingley.

Bradford born and bred Chris first started work as a 15 year old in the kitchens at Brown Muffs before going to catering college and then taking to his travels. He is now looking forward to the challenge of tempting customers to this friendly riverside inn.

Together with new Licensee Fernando Oliveira Chris is looking to introduce a completely new menu featuring seasonal dishes freshly prepared with locally sourced produce. There will also be a daily changing specials board.

Speaking of his plans Chris said: “I’m out to produce good honest pub food. As well as the new menu I’m also looking to introduce steak nights, curry nights and English style tapas. I have to say Bingley is a great little town and the Brown Cow has a really welcoming atmosphere.

Fernando added: “Our aim is to ensure Chris’s food complements our range of Timothy Taylor’s award winning beers and our excellent wine list”

Phil Booth – The Boltmakers Arms, Keighley with Hayley Harrison

12 May 2009

Phil Booth, Licensee of one of Keighley’s most popular town centre community pubs The Boltmakers Arms, has added another string to his bow by becoming manager for talented, Haworth based singer, Hayley Harrison.

Phil who runs the Boltmakers with his wife Val, was so impressed when he first heard Hayley sing he agreed to help her with her bookings and develop her career.

Hayley who originally comes from Burnley and spent 15 years living in Tenerife before moving back to be closer to her family. She has sung in pubs and clubs both in the UK and abroad as well as on cruise ships and specialises in Motown music and performs an excellent Madonna Tribute-Show.

Phil said “This is a new venture for me but I’m enjoying the challenge. I’ve been Hayley’s manager for just over 6 months now and whilst most of our bookings were initially in the Keighley and Bradford area we have now started to pick up gigs from further a field.”

Hayley added “It’s great to be back performing in the UK. I’d almost forgotten how much fun it is to appear in front of an appreciative Northern audience.”

For more information or to book Hayley for your pubs, clubs or party please call Phil on 01535 661936. A website is in the process of being set up.

(left to right) Mark Evans, Rob Oxer and Ben Lumb

14 May 2009

Keighley based brewer Timothy Taylor has made a number of significant changes to its Sale Team. After almost 4 years with the company Assistant Sales Manager Mark Evans has been promoted to Sales Manager, taking over from Tony Howlett who will continue in a part time sales consultancy role prior to his retirement in two years’ time.

As well as overseeing the performance of a team of six salesmen Mark will be responsible for national sales accounts, direct free trade and technical services. Mark also joins the brewery’s Executive Committee.

Ben Lumb steps up to replace Mark as Deputy Sales Manager.

Commenting on his promotion Mark said: “In the company’s 150 years I am only the fifth Sales Manager. I feel honoured to be following some illustrious names and in particular Tony Howlett who has been amazingly successful in developing sales of Timothy Taylor beers and who is extremely well respected in the trade. His are big boots to fill!”

Managing Director Charles Dent added: “Mark’s promotion is very well deserved. Since joining the company he has been responsible for developing our service to national accounts with pubs throughout the country. I am confident he and his team will ensure that Landlord and all our other beers are in perfect condition in all our regular stockists.

At the same time Rob Oxer joins the Sales Team to cover North Lincolnshire, East Yorkshire and the North East. Rob has gained extensive trade experience having spent six years with Inbev UK.

Fernando Oliveira, Brown Cow, Bingley

24 April 2009

Fernando Oliveira is the new tenant at the Timothy Taylor owned Brown Cow, Bingley.

Fernando, whose family hail originally from Portugal, took over in the middle of April and has already started to put in place exciting new plans with something happening most evenings – Every Monday night will be curry night followed by a Quiz night on Tuesday, Thursday nights will become steak nights, with Tapas, specially prepared by Fernando’s wife Paula, who is also Portuguese, being served every Friday.

Music is back on the menu at the Brown Cow with a different live Band playing a mix of music on Saturday nights. Jed’s Blues Band kicks off proceedings on Saturday 2nd May followed by Amnesia who play a mix of Classic Rock and R & B on Saturday 9th May.

Starting on Friday 1st May chef Jenny Butler will introduce a completely new menu featuring seasonal dishes prepared with locally sourced produce. Also starting 1st May and available on Weekdays will be a special £5 main course lunch offer.

Fernando is also keen to promote the upstairs function room with it’s own bar which is ideal for private parties, family celebrations etc.

Commenting on his new challenge Fernando said “I’ve inherited a great team in chef Jenny and bar manager Paul Skillicorn and between us we’re looking forward to building on the Brown Cow’s already excellent reputation for serving traditional home cooked pub food complemented by the full range of Timothy Taylor beers”.

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager added “Fernando is an experienced landlord with all the right attributes for making a success of running the Brown Cow. We wish him the very best of luck”.

Boltmakers Arms Licensees Val and Phil Booth hand over a £3,000 cheque to Manorlands Hospice Fundraiser Carly Balmforth, watched by (left to right) Gary Morton, Hayley Harrison, Frank King and Timothy Taylor Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin.

23 April 2009

Once again Phil and Val Booth at The Boltmakers Arms have been busy raising money for Sue Ryder Care Manorlands Hospice. In the last 12 months the couple have raised just over £3,000 for the Oxenhope hospice through weekly quizzes and raffles.

Last week Manorlands Fundraiser Carly Balmforth called in to the popular Keighley community pub to collect a cheque from Phil and Val.

Carly said: “I’d like to thank Phil and Val and their regulars for their generous support. In the last 4 years The Boltmakers has raised almost £15,000 for Manorlands. It’s a great effort.”

Angela Cromack, Manager and Oliver Stow, Assistant Manager

9 March 2009

Experienced pub operator Angela Cromack has taken over as Manager of the Timothy Taylor owned Royal Oak in Keighley.

Angela has been involved in running pubs for over 15 years and her knowledge of managing real ale pubs will be particularly useful as the Royal Oak is noted for the quality of its Timothy Taylor cask ales.

The Oak is an extremely popular and busy town centre pub so Angela has had to hit the ground running. She is grateful therefore for the support of the existing staff headed by Assistant Manager Oliver Stow.

Whilst weekends, with entertainment from DJs and Karaoke, take care of themselves, Angela has already identified areas of the operation she is looking to develop.

“I’m keen to reintroduce a quiz night every Thursday and, to encourage early evening trade, free light bites such as pork pies, black pudding, crisps and nuts will be on the bar” she said.

Come the summer Angela will look to exploit the full potential of the large beer garden. She added: “No other pub in the centre of Keighley has such a fantastic garden and I intend to put it to full use. One idea I have is to organise family days.”

On the food front Angela is looking to build up Sunday lunches again with traditional served-at-the-table roasts. She is also excited about the new menu being developed by Timothy Taylor’s Food Manager Adrian Sykes. It is anticipated the new menu will be up and running in April. In the meantime chef Richard Philips is familiarising himself with all the new dishes.

Taylor’s Operations Manager Marc Craddock commented: “We are delighted to have such a professional manager as Angela running one of our flagship pubs in Keighley. I’m confident she will do an excellent job.”

17 March 2009

Having been regulars at the Timothy Taylor owned Globe Inn for almost 5 years
John and Sharon Fox jumped at the chance to run it when the tenancy became available.

John left his previous job last September and was looking for a fresh challenge. Both he and Sharon had worked in pubs before so the Keighley community pub they knew so well was an opportunity they could not resist.

John said: “This is a new start for both of us but we’re not afraid of hard work and intend to make the Globe the centre of the community and a pub that everyone wants to visit. A place they can enjoy and have fun”.

Amongst their plans the couple intend to promote lunchtime food with menus for local business people and pensioners. Traditional Sunday lunch will also be back on the menu.

When it comes to entertainment they intend to carry on with the popular Karaoke nights every Friday and introduce a variety of local acts to keep everyone entertained on Saturday nights.

Other plans include race nights, charity nights and themed nights such as a Hawaiian night.

For sports fans all the top matches are available on Sky Sport.

The Globe currently supports 2 darts teams, 2 dominoes teams and a pool team and John is keen to get a second pool team up and running.

The couple are also keen to exploit the full potential of the upstairs function room as an ideal venue for meetings and parties.

Timothy Taylor Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin commented: “John and Sharon are very enthusiastic and have all the right attributes for making a success of running the Globe. We wish them the very best of luck.”

20 February 2009

Music is to become the main attraction at the Albert Hotel under the expert stewardship of new manager Nigel Mount and his partner Becky Gregory.

For a number of years Nigel ran the Puzzle Hall in Sowerby Bridge which he transformed into one of the UK’s top jazz music venues. He is now looking to repeat that success in Keighley by introducing an eclectic mix of music including Blues, Jazz, folk, rock and alternative. Nigel outlined his plans: “Basically I’m looking to relaunch the Albert as the premier music venue in Keighley. I want the Albert to become known for its live music and choice of real ales. We’ll have music on at least 4 nights a week plus regular themed nights which will be great fun.”

Jamie Lawson, Managing Director of Ossett Brewery, that took over the running of the Albert from Timothy Taylor last year, added: “In November we opened The Hop in Wakefield which has quickly become established as a real hot spot for live music. Our aim is to repeat this success at the Albert.”

As well as the music Nigel intends to once again build up the Albert’s reputation as a genuine real ale pub and will offer an extensive choice of cask beers including a full
range from Ossett Brewery plus Timothy Taylor’s Landlord and rotating guest beers from around the country.

Once they have settled in Nigel and Becky will also be looking to introduce food. “It will be simple but good pub grub”, explained Nigel, “with special themed evenings such as Pizza nights and Pie & Chips nights plus Stew on Sundays.

Some of the bands not to be missed in the next few weeks include:-

• 27th February The Steve Fulsham Band, all the way from Hull.
  Great rock r’n’b band
  
• 28th February The Earthmen – funky blues, covers southern boogie etc
  
• 6th March The Jed Thomas Band – the guitar virtuoso from Harrogate, Gallagher, Hendrix, Zeppelin, guitar behind the back and played with the teeth.
  
• 7th March Classic covers from Dr Blue
  
• 14th March The Revelator Band
  
• 21st March Kneivel – great rock band from Harrogate
  
• 27th March Bluesville – rock and blues from North Yorkshire

Check out the Keighley News regularly for details.

Lister and Toni Brown

17 April 2009

Local lad Lister Brown has returned to his home village of Wainstalls with his wife Toni to take over the tenancy of the Cross Roads Inn.

The couple have spent the last few years in the Yorkshire Dales where Toni has gained experience at the Buck Inn, Malham and The Victoria, Kirkby Malham.

Joining them at the popular Timothy Taylor’s wayside inn is chef Patrick Hunter who worked with Toni at the two dales pubs.

His new menu offers good wholesome home cooked food which is locally sourced where ever possible.

Commenting on the food Toni said: “Patrick is noted for his steaks and he’s determined to make The Cross Roads steaks the best in the area.

As well as the seasonally changing menu there is a daily Specials board and Senior Citizens lunches every Monday and Tuesday. Food will be served at lunchtimes and evenings during the week and throughout the day on Saturdays and Sundays both in the bar and in the 36-seater restaurant.

To complement the food there is an extensive wine list and a wide selection of drinks including a range of Timothy Taylor’s award winning cask ales.

Lister is a keen darts and dominoes man and is out to re-establish Cross Roads teams whilst at the same time Toni, who captained the Malham rounders team, is looking to start up a Wainstalls ladies rounders team.

Other entertainment planned includes a weekly quiz night and occasional live music starting with up and coming Halifax band The McCarrons on Friday 1st May.

Lister and Toni also intend to develop the Bed and Breakfast side of the business to its full potential. Set high on the majestic Pennine Moors the pub is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby Hebden Bridge. There is a choice of 7 twin and double-bedded rooms all with en-suite facilities.

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin commented: “Lister and Toni are very enthusiastic and have all the right attributes for making a success of running The Cross Roads. We wish them the very best of luck”

Nick Berkovits and Peter Eells receive the award at the British Bottlers Institute annual awards.

The bottled version of Havercake Ale certainly tickled the taste buds of the judges at the highly coveted British Bottlers Institute annual awards and walked away with a Silver Medal in the 4% to 4.9% ABV category.

16 December 2008

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Customers of the Old White Swan on Goodramgate were treated to a tutored tasting by Timothy Taylor Sales Manager Mark Evans last Tuesday evening.

Mark and his colleague Werner Gallis explained the brewing process and how the different varieties of hops and barley helped to give the different beers their distinctive flavours and colours.

Before sampling the beers guests were invited to taste the maltiness of the barley and experience the varying aromas of the different hops.

Everyone was then invited to guess the weight of a barrel of beer. The winner was Margaret Nicholson from Fife who, along with her friends, Barbara Greig and Mary Crockatt, was down from Scotland on an annual Christmas shopping trip to York. Barbara kindly donated her prize back to the pub for a charity raffle.

To complete the evening members of the York Minster Choir sang Christmas songs to raise money for local charities.

The Old White Swan Manager Andrew McCathy commented: “We are always trying to come up with something a little different and thanks to Mark & Werner this proved to be a very entertaining evening. We will definitely be looking to repeat it again in the near future.”

Keighley brewer Timothy Taylor, which is famous for brewing Madonna’s favourite beer, Landlord, produces a range of award winning cask ales and this year celebrated its 150th Anniversary.

12 December 2008

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Long serving tenants Alan and Barbara Cowling at the Timothy Taylor owned Vine Tavern on Hope Place have been rewarded for the quality of the beer they serve by gaining the much coveted Cask Marque award.

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are presented to pubs passing the rigorous tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standards.

As well as excellent beers, including Taylor’s award-winning cask ales, the pub is well known for its variety of entertainment.

Prior to taking the tenancy at the Vine, almost 10 years ago, Alan and Barbara spent 27 years in show business. As the comedy / vocal double act ‘Babs & Spider’ they travelled the world on cruise ships as well as regularly appearing in clubs throughout the country and completing 10 seasons in Blackpool. Nowadays they restrict their performances to entertaining their customers every Saturday night. Other regular entertainment includes quiz nights, Karaoke and live bands. This last year local historian Ian Dewhirst’s talks on ‘Keighley Pubs’ and ‘Keighley in WW2’ have also proved very popular.

Alan is delighted with the Cask Marque award. “The Vine is very much a local community pub so beer quality is very important. It’s good therefore to be recognised for the high standard of the beers we serve.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin added: “Alan and Babs are true professionals and run a great pub. They fully deserve this Cask Marque award.”

8 December 2008

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Times may be tough for pubs at the moment but Ross and Anita Walker of the Dog & Gun, Malsis, are facing the future with confidence.

Not only is the Timothy Taylor owned pub about to be extended to cater for demand for more dining area but the enterprising couple have also launched a new range of fine foods.

Yorkshire Pub Food is the brainchild of chef Ross, who has developed a range of preserves, chutneys, smoked produce and, especially for the festive season, Christmas puddings.

Despite having a busy kitchen, production is in full swing at the pub with Ross smoking his own salmon, mackerel and cheese and preparing the jams and puddings.

“The whole concept is based on old family recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. Initial response has been very favourable so we are confident the idea will really take off”, said Ross. To create more space in the kitchen Ross and Anita are about to embark on re-developing a small stable block at the back of the pub into a new preparation room.

Anita is very excited about their latest project. “We are always looking for new ideas to help our business grow so diversifying into home made fine foods seemed a logical step. Eventually we hope Yorkshire Pub Food produce will be available widely, not just locally through our pub but nationally via our website. In the build up to Christmas we are obviously keen to sell as many Christmas puddings as possible.”

2009 looks like being a busy year at the Dog & Gun. Having built up a reputation for serving good quality traditional pub food that is excellent value for money, we will start shortly on extending the dining area to take in the existing patio area at the side of the pub. The outside area will, however, not be lost, as a roof garden will be created on top of the extension.

Anita added: “This extension will not only give us more room for diners but allow us the flexibility to cater for small private functions”.

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager commented: “Ross and Anita run an excellent pub and have created the demand to necessitate enlarging the dining facilities. As for their new food range, I’ve tasted samples and they are delicious. I’m sure the venture will be a success. At a time when many pubs are closing it’s good to be able to report good news for a change.”

At the moment Yorkshire Pub Foods are only available at the Dog & Gun but a full list of the produce can be viewed on their website www.dog-and-gun.co.uk

18 November 2008

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The fourth Beef & Beer Dinner organised by the Keighley Manorlands Committee raised £35,000 for the Sue Ryder Care Manorlands Hospice, Oxenhope.

260 guests attended the annual dinner at the Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley and enjoyed prime sirloin of the very finest British beef which, for the second year running, was supplied by Dovecote Park of Pontefract, suppliers to Waitrose.

Once again the main fundraiser was the Charity Auction and there was also a lucky dip ‘Hop Tub’ and quiz. After dinner guests were able to chance their luck at either roulette or vingt-et-un courtesy of Gala Bingo, with all proceeds to Manorlands. A donation of £10,000 was also made by Sovereign Health Care.

The after dinner speech was given by ex Yorkshire and England cricketer Richard Hutton, son of the legendary Sir Leonard Hutton, who entertained the audience with amusing anecdotes from his playing career.

Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Timothy Taylor’s Managing Director Charles Dent, who said: “Despite the economical downturn we had a record turnout and this is testimony to the hard work and commitment of the Keighley Manorlands Challenge Committee. A big thank you goes to them all for giving of their time and making sure the event was such a success.

Sue Ryder Care Area Fundraising Manager Jodie Shepherd added: “Manorlands costs £2million to run and every year we are charged with raising £1.1million to maintain the essential palliative care provided by our dedicated staff. The Beef & Beer dinner is a key element of our fundraising effort so our heartfelt thanks go to everyone for their generous support.

16 December 2008

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Customers of the Old White Swan on Goodramgate were treated to a tutored tasting by Timothy Taylor Sales Manager Mark Evans last Tuesday evening.

Mark and his colleague Werner Gallis explained the brewing process and how the different varieties of hops and barley helped to give the different beers their distinctive flavours and colours.

Before sampling the beers guests were invited to taste the maltiness of the barley and experience the varying aromas of the different hops.

Everyone was then invited to guess the weight of a barrel of beer. The winner was Margaret Nicholson from Fife who, along with her friends, Barbara Greig and Mary Crockatt, was down from Scotland on an annual Christmas shopping trip to York. Barbara kindly donated her prize back to the pub for a charity raffle.

To complete the evening members of the York Minster Choir sang Christmas songs to raise money for local charities.

The Old White Swan Manager Andrew McCathy commented: “We are always trying to come up with something a little different and thanks to Mark & Werner this proved to be a very entertaining evening. We will definitely be looking to repeat it again in the near future.”

Keighley brewer Timothy Taylor, which is famous for brewing Madonna’s favourite beer, Landlord, produces a range of award winning cask ales and this year celebrated its 150th Anniversary.

18 November 2008

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Shipley MP Philip Davies called in to the Brown Cow, Bingley last Friday evening to present landlady Adele Purton with a certificate from the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group commending the Timothy Taylor owned pub for its great beer and food.

Philip, who used to work for Asda before taking his seat at Westminster, said: “Pubs have been going through tough times recently, particularly since the smoking ban. However, well run pubs like the Brown Cow that offer a warm welcome coupled with excellent food and quality beers will always play a vital role in the community. As a group we are more than happy to support the British pub, which is part of our heritage. I congratulate Adele and all her staff on the fantastic job they are doing.”

The Parliamentary Beer Group initiative is endorsed by Beautiful Beer, a national scheme launched in 2006 by the British Beer & Pub Association to acknowledge and reward licensees serving outstanding cask, bottled and keg beers.

The Brown Cow holds not only the highly acclaimed Beautiful Beer Gold award but also the Cask Marque award. Both accolades recognise the quality of a pub’s beer and to qualify Adele and her staff had to pass a rigorous ‘cellar to glass’ assessment.

Commenting on this latest stamp of approval from the Parliamentary Beer Group Adele said: “It is very much a team effort at the Brown Cow so my thanks go to everyone for their hard work and commitment.”

On the food front chef Jenni Butler has just put together a special 3-course Christmas menu plus coffee and mince pies for only £19.95. Individual and party bookings are now being taken for this special menu which is available, in addition to the pub’s usual menu, in the build up to Christmas.

27 October 2008

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Timothy Taylor, brewers of Madonna’s favourite English ale, has entered into a ground-breaking partnership which sees Ossett Brewery take over the running of the Albert Hotel in Keighley.

The town centre tavern re-opened earlier this month following a refurbishment and is now being managed by Lori Parsons and her partner Mark Wood. The highly experienced couple have moved across from running another Ossett owned pub, the Riverhead Brewery Tap and Dining Room in Marsden, near Huddersfield. They intend to build on the Albert’s reputation as a real ale pub and will offer a choice of at least 10 cask beers including an extensive range of Ossett Brewery ales and rotating guests from around the country. Ossett has 5 permanent beers plus 2 monthly specials.

Commenting on the move to Keighley Lori said: “Moving into Timothy Taylor’s heartland is a real challenge for Mark and I. Ossett Brewery, however, has a winning formula which works well in other areas so we are confident it will be just as successful in Keighley. As well as the Ossett range of beers we will be offering a regular rotating choice of guests. We will, of course, be keeping at least one Taylor’s beer.” She added: We are continuing to sponsor the pub’s football and pool teams and early next year we intend to introduce food.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin said: “This is the first time we have entered into a tenancy agreement with another brewery. It is, however, a growing trend across the country and one which I am sure will be mutually beneficial for both Ossett and ourselves.”

Ossett Brewery’s Managing Director Jamie Lawson added: “The Albert fits well into our growing portfolio of pubs in West Yorkshire. It’s our first pub in the Keighley area and gives us an ideal opportunity to introduce our beers to the locals who appreciate good cask ale.”

The brewery was started by Jamie’s father Bob Lawson who has spent over 40 years as a brewer, including 25 years with Joshua Tetley. The first beer, aptly named ‘Bobby Dazzler’ was brewed in 1998 and was an instant success. Since then the growing range of beers has won numerous prizes at beer festivals including ‘Excelsior’ being voted Supreme National Champion Beer at the prestigious Society of Independent Brewery Beer Awards.

12 November 2008

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Experienced licensees Roy and Pat Pritchard have taken the tenancy of the
Timothy Taylor owned Cross Inn at Heptonstall.

The couple have run a number of pubs in their 18 years in the trade and have moved to West Yorkshire following a successful stint running the Ferry Boat at Winteringham on Humberside.

The practical knowledge the couple have gained is already beginning to be put to good use in the changes they have made at the Cross.

Roy is a knowledgeable cask ale man and is serving the full range of Timothy Taylor’s five beers, all in prime condition. He also does the cooking and has reintroduced what he describes as traditional, freshly prepared pub food including Sunday lunch with a choice of four meats and fresh vegetables for £5.75. Served seven days a week from 12 noon to early evening the menu includes many favourite dishes plus baguette sandwiches, filled baked potatoes and tasty vegetarian options. Thursday is couples night with any 2 meals plus a bottle of wine for just £20, whilst Friday is ‘Fish Special’ day. Roy has also introduced Take Away Curries for only £6 which are proving to be very popular.

On the entertainment front the Cross now offers all the top sporting events from Sky and Setanta on a giant screen and an early evening quiz every Sunday for £3 including supper.

Roy and Pat also plan to make Friday night entertainment night with, amongst other things, live bands and open Mike Nights.

Commenting on the move Roy said, “When our previous landlord threatened to double our rent we knew it was time to move on. We saw the Cross on the Timothy Taylor website and when we came to look we knew immediately it was our kind of pub with bags of potential. We also fell in love with the village. Plus as a cask ale man the opportunity to serve Taylor’s beers was one I just couldn’t resist.”

Pat added, “We’re right in the heart of the village and intend to immerse ourselves in the community. We are already collecting for next year’s Heptonstall Festival and are planning a kids Christmas Party.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin commented, “The Cross could not be in better hands. They are making long term plans and I’m sure they will be successful. Everyone at Taylor’s wishes them the best of luck."

6 November 2008

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Barry & Carol Taylor of the Brown Cow, Keighley have won a number of CAMRA accolades in the last few years but last Saturday they were in celebratory mood as they reached new heights when they were awarded runner-up in CAMRA’s Regional Pub of the Year.

“This is a great honour for us”, said Barry. “When you consider there are thousands of pubs in the Yorkshire area this is quite an achievement. Apparently we were only pipped by half a point by a pub in Sheffield.”

Mike Moss, CAMRA’s Regional Director for Yorkshire and the North East, along with Colleen Holiday, Chair of the Keighley & Craven Branch, presented Barry and Carol with a framed plaque to mark the occasion.

Mike Moss commented: “Barry and Carol run a fantastic little community pub with a really friendly atmosphere. They offer a great choice of cask conditioned ales that are always in superb condition. To be voted runner-up by our members out of the whole of the Yorkshire and the North East region demonstrates the popularity and appeal of the Brown Cow.”

4 November 2008

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Hot on the heels of gaining the Cask Marque award, in July, Trudy Pilmoor and Simon Brown of The White Swan, Fence have picked up the highly acclaimed Beautiful Beer Gold Award. Both awards recognise the quality of a pub’s beer and to qualify Trudy and Simon had to pass a rigorous ‘cellar to glass’ assessment.

Beautiful Beer is a national scheme launched in 2006 by the British Beer and Pubs Association to acknowledge and reward licensees serving outstanding cask, bottled and keg beers.

Commenting on this latest achievement Trudy said: “This Beautiful Beer award endorses The White Swan’s reputation for serving beer in perfect condition. You are only as good as your last pint so consistency is everything. The assessor sampled a number of our beers and their consistent quality was something he commented on specifically.”

It is only 9 months since the couple took over the Timothy Taylor owned White Swan but in that time the popular village pub has also gained a growing reputation for serving excellent home made food prepared using locally sourced produce.

Now the long winter evenings have arrived an open fire guarantees a warm welcome and a cosy atmosphere. With Christmas approaching Trudy and Simon are looking forward to a busy festive season.

Simon said: “Basically we are open throughout Christmas and New Year. Our special festive fayre menu starts on 1st December and is ideal for a celebratory meal out with family, friends or small office parties. Then on Christmas Day we will be serving a superb 5-course luncheon. On New Year’s Eve we will be hosting a ticket only party.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin added: “Trudy and Simon are totally committed to offering the very highest standard of beer and food service and this latest award is testimony to the standards they have achieved”.

For more details of The White Swan’s Christmas festivities or to make a booking just ring Trudy or Simon on 01282 611773.

27 October 2008

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Hot on the heels of gaining the Cask Marque award in July Adele Purton at the Brown Cow, Bingley has picked up the highly acclaimed Beautiful Beer Gold award. Both awards recognise the quality of a pub’s beer and to qualify Adele and her staff had to pass a rigorous ‘cellar to glass’ assessment.

Beautiful Beer is a national scheme launched in 2006 by the British Beer and Pubs Association to acknowledge and reward licensees serving outstanding cask, bottled and keg beers.

Commenting on this latest achievement Adele said: “This Beautiful Beer award endorses the Brown Cow’s reputation for serving beer in perfect condition. You are only as good as your last pint so consistency is everything. The assessor sampled a number of beers and their consistent quality was something he commented on specifically.”

It is only 9 months since Adele took over the Timothy Taylor owned Brown Cow but in that time the Ireland Bridge pub has also gained a growing reputation for serving excellent food prepared using locally sourced produce.

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin added: “Adele and her team are totally committed to offering the very highest standard of beer and food service and this latest award is testimony to those standards. I congratulate Adele and all her staff."

27 October 2008

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Since taking over the reins at the Grouse Inn Mark Narey and his business partner, chef Karl Rowlett have transformed this rural Bronte Country inn, with its spectacular views, into a recognised destination food pub.

This reputation was further enhanced recently when the Grouse was runner up in the prestigious White Rose Awards ‘Pub of the Year’ organised by the Yorkshire Tourist Board.

Now the Timothy Taylor owned pub has achieved top rating – 5 out of 5 stars - in the ‘Scores on the Doors’ scheme run by Bradford District Council’s Department of Environment and Neighbourhoods.

The Grouse is one of only a limited number of pubs in the Bradford District to achieve a 5 star rating.

Backed by the Food Standards Agency the nationally run scheme, which has been embraced by over 70 local authorities, enables members of the public to check out hygiene and food preparation standards in restaurants, pubs, clubs and hotels, not just locally but throughout the country.

Anyone wishing to check out the ratings of their local eatery can do so on the ‘Scores on the Doors’ website www.scoresonthedoors.org.uk

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin commented: “The Grouse serves excellent home cooked food which Karl and his kitchen staff prepare on site using only the freshest local produce. This latest accolade is just reward for all the hard work and commitment Mark, Karl and their staff have put in over the last few years”.

Not that the Grouse is all about food, earlier in the year the quality of its beers was also recognised when it picked up the prestigious Cask Marque Award.

27 October 2008

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Since taking over the reigns at the Burlington Arms in Keighley from her parents Gordon & Christine, Tina Peacock has maintained the Timothy Taylor owned pub’s reputation for serving good quality beers. That reputation has now been recognised by being awarded the prestigious Cask Marque Award.

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are awarded to pubs passing the rigorous tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standard.

Commenting on the award Tina said, “Mum and Dad were a hard act to follow so I’m obviously delighted with this award. Being a Keighley town centre pub our customers expect a good, value for money pint. Luckily I still have Dad, who’s always around to keep me on my toes!”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin added, “As a company, Taylor’s is committed to upholding the traditions of the English pub. By winning this award Tina and her staff have demonstrated the Burlington is in safe hands, serving fine beers”.

22 September 2008

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Since taking over as Manager of the Royal Oak on Kirkgate earlier in the year Adrian Sykes together with his team including Head Chef Calvin Goddard and Assistant Manager Lucy Slater have certainly enhanced the Timothy Taylor owned pubs reputation for serving quality food and beers. That reputation has now been further boosted by being awarded the prestigious Cask Marque for the quality of its beer.

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are awarded to pubs passing the rigorous tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standards.

The Royal Oak joins a growing number of Taylor’s pubs to pick up the Cask Marque award. Tied Estate Operations Manager Marc Craddock commented “As well as serving excellent beers The Royal Oak has now become an established Ripon eatery and that is down to Adrian and his team whose commitment and enthusiasm shine through in every aspect of the service they provide. This accolade reflects all the hard work they have put in over the last 8 months”.

In addition, The Royal Oak features, for the first time, in the recently launched CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) 2009 Good Beer Guide.

Last year Timothy Taylor’s classic strong pale ale, Landlord, was voted Yorkshire’s favourite cask ale in the first Cask Marque ‘Best of British Beer’ Awards. Split into regions these national awards were organised in association with the Daily Telegraph. Landlord was the only beer to win two regions, also coming out top in the North West.

12 September 2008

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Rachel Winters and partner Simon Hunnam are the new management team at The Shepherds Arms in the centre of Colne.

Both Rachel and Simon have just left the Army and are confident their military training has given them the determination and dedication necessary to make a success of their new challenge. The couple have been joined by highly experienced Ken Houston, who returns to the Shepherds, after a number of years, as Assistant Manager.

The popular Timothy Taylor owned pub is due for a ‘face lift’ in November, just prior to the busy Christmas period. Rachel said: “Once the refurb is complete we will re-introduce food but in the meantime we’ve something happening every night, from Karaoke to live bands. It is also the place to watch sport in Colne.

Simon, who hails from the North East, spent 14 years with the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment – now 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment – a regiment Timothy Taylor has had close ties with for many years. Indeed a former employee, Private Arthur Poulter, won a Victoria Cross whilst serving as a stretcher-bearer with the Dukes during the First World War. He carried 10 men to safety under heavy artillery and machine gun fire during the great German offensive of 1918. When asked by a local journalist on his return to Leeds where he got his strength he replied: “It was now’t really – I was used to carrying heavy sacks of barley at Timothy Taylor maltings”.

Taylor’s Tied Estate Operations Manager Marc Craddock commented: “Rachel and Simon’s enthusiasm and their professional approach to the job really shine through. I’m sure they will make a great success of running the Shepherds.”

11 September 2008

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Other changes include opening all day from 12 noon to 11pm and also introducing bar food which will be served throughout the day. Tony and Nick, who have run a bar/restaurant in Spain for five years, are keen to use their experience and develop the food side of the business.

Nick added, “Good quality simple pub grub complemented by a selection of cask ales is our aim. We are also in the throes of putting together a special Christmas menu”.

At the Slubbers you won’t find modern distractions such as TV, piped music or gambling machines but as winter approaches Tony and Nick will guarantee a warm welcome by stoking up the real fire in the traditional Yorkshire range. They are also looking to develop a small meeting room and extend the small beer garden but, as they said, this will probably have to wait now until the warmer weather returns next year.

The Slubbers is owned by award winning Keighley Brewer Timothy Taylor. Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin commented, “The Slubbers has real potential which I’m sure Tony and Nick will exploit to the full.”

28 August 2008

As part of the company’s 150th Anniversary celebrations Timothy Taylor re-introduced Havercake Ale earlier in the year, the beer it first brewed in 2002 to mark the Tercentenary of the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment.

This was the third brewing of this very special pale ale described by Head Brewer Peter Eells as ‘A robust Yorkshire ale (4.7% ABV) brewed to match the qualities of the famous West Riding Regiment – it has strength, balance, clarity and a good head!”

Like its two predecessors this latest brew was available on draught and in bottles and proved extremely popular, selling out within weeks of going on sale in selected outlets throughout Yorkshire and East Lancashire.

The bottled version was particularly well received, catching the eye of the judges at the highly coveted British Bottlers’ Institute annual awards and winning a Silver Medal in Class B – 4% to 4.9% ABV category.

One or two barrels were, however, kept on one side for three parties in July when the Keighley brewer entertained over 600 guests including Shareholders, customers, suppliers and staff to thank them for their continued support in its special year.

As many of you will know, soldiers of the 3rd Battalion have always been affectionately nicknamed ‘The Havercake Lads’. The name is derived from the oatmeal bread cake which for centuries was a staple food of the Pennine towns and villages. Reputedly the recruiting sergeant went around with a Havercake on his sword when out looking for ‘volunteers’. It seems the promise of being regularly fed on Havercakes was an irresistible bait. No doubt plenty of ale also played its part in the process!

Timothy Taylor has long had close ties with the ‘Dukes’. Indeed, Timothy Taylor himself was a member of the Volunteer Rifle Corps based in Keighley in 1859. Since that time, through successive generations, members of the brewery staff have served with the regiment – most notably Pte Arthur Poulter, who won a VC in April 1918 whilst serving as a stretcher bearer. History reveals that Private Poulter worked in the brewery’s maltings in Leeds just prior to the outbreak of war. He was awarded the Victoria Cross after rescuing 10 badly wounded men whom he carried on his back to safety under intense enemy machine gun and artillery fire. All this took place close to the railway crossing at Erquinghem-Lys during the German offensive of April 1918. When asked by a local journalist where he got his strength from he put it down to his days working for Timothy Taylor humping sacks of barley.

In 1998 the ‘Dukes’ provided the guard of honour when the small French town erected a memorial to Arthur Poulter to mark the 80th anniversary of the Armistice. The regiment returned to the town in 2005 when they were honoured with the keys of the town and Timothy Taylor provided the ales for the reception which included Havercake Ale.

Managing Director Charles Dent said “On two occasions Timothy Taylor’s cask conditioned English ale has been served to the French townsfolk and they loved it. This perhaps is no surprise, for as the mayor of Erquinghem-Lys explained, it’s an area of Northern France that produces and appreciates good beer!”

5 August 2008

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The Town Hall Tavern, Timothy Taylor’s popular Leeds city centre pub, is toasting yet another CAMRA Pub of the Season award.

In the last few years John and Lorraine Mitchell have earned a reputation for serving excellent cask conditioned ales and have won a number of CAMRA accolades. This time they picked up the Summer Pub of the Season award after Leeds and District CAMRA members tasted a variety of the beers on offer at the Westgate pub.

John Mitchell said “We’re obviously delighted with this latest award. Serving quality beers in prime condition has always been our aim. It is what customers of the Town Hall Tavern expect.”

In addition John and Lorraine hold the Cask Marque certificate of Excellence and the Beautiful Beer Gold Award. At the beginning of the year they were also given a top 5 star rating for their food hygiene under the Food Standards Agency ‘Scores on Doors’ scheme.

The Town Hall Tavern regularly serves four Timothy Taylors beers including Madonna’s favourite Landlord.

John and Lorraine received their Pub of the Season Plaque in recognition of their achievement from John Roe, Chairman of Leeds & District CAMRA.

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Since taking over the tenancy at the Bown Cow, Bingley in February Adele Purton has enhanced the Timothy Taylor owned pub’s reputation for serving quality beers by gaining the prestigious Cask Marque award

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are presented to pubs passing the rigorous tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standards.

As well as excellent beers, including all five of Taylor’s awarding –winning cask ales, the pub is also enjoying a growing reputation for serving good wholesome pub food. All the food is freshly prepared using locally sourced produce wherever possible.

Adele is delighted with the Cask Marque award and the response to the new menu. “The Brown Cow has always been a popular, traditional Bingley pub. My aim is to build on that reputation and make it ‘the must visit pub’ in the area for both beer and food. I am also looking at the possibility of restarting Jazz Nights, hopefully in September.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin said: “As a company, Taylor’s is committed to upholding the traditions of the English pub. By winning this award Adele and her staff have demonstrated the Brown Cow is in safe hands, serving quality pub food and fine beers.”

23 July 2008

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The Fleece Inn, Haworth has become the first pub in Yorkshire to be awarded the much coveted Beautiful Beer Platinum Award.

For Nick Hindle, who took over the tenancy of the Timothy Taylor owned Fleece just over 18 months ago, this is the latest in a line of awards he has won for the quality of his beers.

Last November he picked up the Beautiful Beer Gold Award after passing a rigorous ‘cellar to glass’ assessment. This had followed hot on the heels of the prestigious Cask Marque Award, again for the quality of the pub’s beers.

Commenting on his latest achievement Nick said: “We thought achieving the Gold award was hard enough but the assessment for the Platinum award was unbelievable. As well as checking the temperature, taste and aroma of the beers they also looked for exacting standards on how every member of staff dispensed the beers and tested their knowledge of each and every one we serve. They also looked for recommendations of matching beers with particular dishes on our menu. It really was a thorough appraisal.”

Timothy Taylor’s Tied Estate Manager Andrew Daykin added: “Nick and his staff are totally committed to offering the very highest standard of beer and food service and this latest award is testimony to those standards. The Beautiful Beer Platinum Award is the highest accolade a licensee can achieve. I congratulate Nick and all his staff.”

Andrew did however issue a word of caution: “Nick will have to remain on his toes for not only do Beautiful Beer reassess annually but they also carry out surprise checks on a regular basis”.

The Beautiful Beer Award is a national scheme launched in 2006 to recognise and reward licensees delivering outstanding bottled, keg and cask beers. At present there are only 12 other holders of the Platinum award in the UK.

As well as the full range of Timothy Taylor ales the Fleece also stocks over 30 fine bottled beers from around the world.

Earlier this year Nick was ‘Highly Commended’ in the Publican Awards ‘Newcomer of the Year’ category. To qualify Nick had to have less than 2 years experience in the trade and demonstrate that hard work and business acumen have created an outstanding pub.

The Publican is one of the licensing trade’s leading magazines and the awards are widely regarded as the ‘Oscars’ of the pub industry. Nick added: “A number of people locally were sceptical that anyone new to the trade could run a pub with a reputation for serving fine ales. These awards I feel, prove a point!”

Nick, however, is not resting on his laurels as he is about to open a cleverly created beer garden at the back of the pub which will seat up to 120 people.

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Since taking over as tenants of The White Swan, Fence in February Trudy Pilmoor and her partner Simon Brown have certainly enhanced the Timothy Taylor owned pub’s reputation for serving quality beers. That reputation has now been enhanced further by gaining the prestigious Cask Marque award.

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are presented to pubs passing the rigorous tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standards.

As well as excellent beers, including Taylor’s award-winning cask ales, the pub is also enjoying a growing reputation for serving traditional, wholesome pub food. All the food is freshly prepared on the premises by Trudy, who sources local produce wherever possible. Now the better weather has arrived, food service times have been extended to Tuesday – Saturday 11.30am to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 9pm and then Sunday all day from 12 noon to 9pm.

Trudy is delighted with the Cask Marque award and the response to the new menu. “Our aim is to make The White Swan the heart of the village community and being recognised for the high standard of the beers we serve certainly will help. On the food front, word is certainly spreading and we’re starting to get really busy. We are attracting an ever-increasing number of regular drinkers and the food is taking off too, to the extent it is now advisable to book at busy times at weekends.”

Other developments include a new outside seating area with heating and lighting, as well as the introduction of an extremely popular Quiz and Curry Supper Night every Wednesday at 8pm for just £5.

This year is Timothy Taylor’s 150th Anniversary and to celebrate the occasion the enterprising couple are selling special bottled beer packs and, a little later in the year, organising a Timothy Taylor Quiz Night and a special Free 150 Pints promotion. Details will be posted in the pub and on the couple’s new website www.whiteswanfence.co.uk

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The third year of the Timothy Taylor sponsored Tom Tittiman race from the Hare & Hounds at Old Town was run in wet and windy conditions. Despite this being the middle of summer, the weather man had forecasted gale force winds - but that didn’t put off 68 hardy souls who gathered on the start line.

The early pace was set by Jason Williams, one of a group of a dozen from the Owls Athletic Club in Leicester who make a trip up here every year for these fell races, and who make a weekend of it by staying in the Hare & Hounds. Williams is a fast road and cross-country runner and showed his pace and strength to be first to the top of Tom Tittiman hill and stay in front up to the high point of the race on High Brown Knoll. From there, the runners turned back into the wind to return to the cairn on Tom Tittiman and then to descend back down to the finish line.

Descending is where experienced fell runners have the advantage over those less used to this terrain, and on the way back Williams was caught and passed by James Logue, an international fell-runner and orienteer who has represented Ireland in both disciplines.

Logue built and maintained his lead, to finish the 4-mile route, with 675’ of ascent and descent, in a time of 27 minutes and 52 seconds. This is his second win, having won the inaugural race in 2006.

Williams finished in second place, more than a minute behind Logue, and a very promising up-and-coming runner from Halifax Harriers, the under-18 Steven Bayton was third. Bayton led a trio of Halifax Harriers to win the team prize, with another very quick young lad, under-16 Joseph Crossfield in eighth place and the more experienced Michael Fryer in tenth place.

The first lady back was Christine Preston from Todmorden Harriers who kept ahead of her female rivals all the way round. Preston finished in a time of 37 minutes exactly.

The travelling Leicester Owls didn’t go away empty handed, since their contingent of ladies won the ladies team prize. In fact there were plenty of prizes for the runners - courtesy of trophies, T-shirts and bottles of Landlord supplied by Timothy Taylor.

Shaun and Wendy Dalton, who took over at the Taylor’s owned Hare & Hounds last October, were delighted to continue helping support this, now well established, race.

Shaun said: “It was a great day. Despite the weather everyone really enjoyed themselves.”

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Paul Bennett from Wakefield is the winner of the latest Timothy Taylor website Quiz. He visited the brewery recently to collect his prize which included a cheque for £250, from Head Brewer Peter Eells.

Peter Eells gave the lucky trio a guided tour of the brewery before they went on to sample the beers first hand in one or two Timothy Taylor pubs in Keighley.

Peter commented “Our website competition has now been running for 6 years and is proving to be as popular as ever with this latest quiz attracting more entries than ever. This year is the brewery’s 150th Anniversary and we are in the process of coming up with a special celebration quiz which will be posted on the website in September.”

18 June 2008

Andrew Goodall – Manager of Ferrands Arms, Bingley with Awards. Click to zoom

Since taking over as Manager of the Ferrands Arms, Bingley a year ago Andrew Goodall has certainly enhanced the Timothy Taylor owned pub’s reputation for serving good quality food and beers. That reputation has now been further enhanced by being awarded the prestigious Cask Marque for the quality of its beers.

Cask Marque is an independent organisation responsible for monitoring cask ale quality nationwide. Special plaques are awarded to pubs passing the tests carried out by trained beer assessors for keeping and serving ale to the highest standards.

Earlier in the year the Ferrands achieved top rating – 5 out of 5 Stars – in the ‘Scores on the Doors’ scheme run by Bradford District Council’s Department of Environment and Neighbourhoods.

The Ferrands Arms is one of only a limited number of pubs in the Bradford District to achieve a 5 Star rating.

Backed by the Food Standards Agency the nationally run scheme, which has been embraced by over 70 local authorities, enables members of the public to check out the hygiene and food preparation standards in restaurants, pubs, clubs and hotels not just locally but throughout the country.

Anyone wishing to check out the ratings of their local can do so on the ‘Scores on the Doors’ website www.scoresonthedoors.org.uk

Timothy Taylor’s Operations Manager Marc Craddock commented: “Andy’s commitment and enthusiasm shine through in every aspect of the service the Ferrands provides. These accolades are just reward for all the hard work he and his staff have put in over the last 12 months.”

18 June 2008

The Lord Rodney, regarded by many as the oldest pub in Keighley has been brought into the 21st Century with a stylish and sympathetic transformation by local brewer Timothy Taylor. Opening on 20th June, The Lord Rodney will become a focal point in the area offering local and international beers, a tasty modern British menu and a range of cocktails designed by Northern Cocktail Mixer of the Year 2008, Nick Ord.

The £1m investment has seen a partial rebuild of the pub which is thought to date back more than 400 years. Originally called Ye Olde Red Lion, the pub was renamed The Lord Rodney in the late 1700's, in honour of one of the leading British Admirals of the 18th Century, Sir George Brydges Rodney, later Lord Rodney Rear Admiral of Great Britain. The team has used elements of the original pub design to create a clever mix of both modern and traditional styles. Comfy sofas and chairs encourage relaxed drinking and dining and the cosy booth seating means couples or groups of friends can enjoy an intimate night out.

The spectacular new bar will be the focal point of the pub and offers a wide selection of world beers, Timothy Taylor ales, wines and spirits. Nick Ord's impressive cocktail menu will be the talk of the town with some innovative combinations including a British take on the popular Mojito.

An impressive menu has been created to cater for people wanting quick bites, long lunches and hearty dinners. All will be freshly prepared on site using locally sourced produce. From meaty lamb shanks to fillet of sea bass, sharing platters and real puddings, the Lord Rodney is what people living and working in Keighley have been waiting for.

Mark Youd, The Lord Rodney manager said: “The Lord Rodney will be a welcome addition to Keighley, smart and sophisticated, friendly and welcoming. We are a place where friends can meet for for a drink, catch up over lunch or enjoy a big night out, all in total comfort and style. We have also just launched our free membership card with lots of superb offers and events for Lord Rodney members”.

Anyone wanting to keep up to date with news about The Lord Rodney should visit www.lordrodney.co.uk where they can also apply for free membership.

20 May 2008

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The Brown Cow on Cross Leeds Street was officially crowned Keighley & Craven District CAMRA Pub of the Year at a presentation ceremony last Wednesday evening.

For Barry and Carol Taylor this latest accolade is the ultimate endorsement of everything they have achieved in running their successful community pub. Since they took over 5 years ago the couple have been regular CAMRA award winners including ‘Pub of the Season’ on a number of occasions and have also picked up the ‘Mild Trail’ award.

Local CAMRA Chairman Colleen Holiday said: “This is the first time the Keighley & Craven branch has run a pub of the year award. In determining the winner our members looked at a cross-section of criteria including beer quality, customer service, clientele mix and value for money. The whole process took 5 months and the Brown Cow was the clear winner. On behalf of CAMRA I congratulate Barry and Carol - the atmosphere they have created in their pub is very special”.

CAMRA Regional Director Mick Moss added: “I endorse everything Colleen has said. The Brown Cow is a great little pub. It will now go forward to the CAMRA Yorkshire Pub of the Year, the result of which will be known later in the summer. I am sure it will do well.”

The Brown Cow always has four Timothy Taylor award-winning ales on the bar plus two guest beers, usually from small, local breweries. A good selection of German and Belgian bottled beers is always available together with Leffe and real ciders on draught. In the last couple of years the quality of the beer at the Brown Cow has also been recognised through earning the prestigious national Beautiful Beer and Cask Marque awards.

A delighted Carol said: “We are obviously very pleased to have picked up this latest accolade. You won’t find any loud music or TV at the Brown Cow – just good beer, good company and interesting conversation. We also have a strict ‘no swearing’ policy. It’s a formula that seems to work!”

The flavour of the evening was further enhanced by the tasting of Celebration sausages produced especially for the occasion by Roy Dykes, the well-known local butcher. The sausages are made with Timothy Taylor’s Celebration Ale, which was brewed to celebrate the Knowle Spring brewery’s 150th anniversary.

The sausages proved so popular Roy had to be up early the following morning to make some more to meet demand. Not a huge surprise really for as Roy said: “Bangers with beer – an unbeatable combination”.

Roy Dykes Celebration Sausages are available from his stall in Keighley Market. Ring to check availability on 01535 605808.

13 May 2008

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Trudy Pilmoor, who took over the tenancy of the Timothy Taylor owned White Swan at Fence in February, has now been joined by her partner Simon Brown.

This is the couple’s first tenancy but between them they have extensive experience of running pubs. Trudy has, for the last nine years, successfully managed three Timothy Taylor pubs including, most recently, overseeing the refurbishment and relaunch of the Royal Oak in Ripon. Simon, meanwhile, worked in pubs and also ran his own bar in Greece for a number of years prior to pursuing a career in telecommunications in London. He has now moved up to Lancashire to join Trudy full time and they are both relishing the challenge of running their own business. Their aim is to make the
White Swan the heart of the village community and both believe they have the right formula – serving Taylor’s award-winning cask ales and traditional, wholesome pub food.

All the food is freshly made on the premises by Trudy, who sources local produce wherever possible. Now the better weather has arrived and Simon is on board, food serving times have been extended to Monday – Saturday 11.30am to 2.30pm and 5.30pm to 9pm and Sunday 12 noon to 5pm.

Trudy is delighted with the response to her new menus. “Word is spreading and we’re starting to get busy. We are attracting an ever-increasing number of regular drinkers and the food is really starting to take off. Last Friday evening, for example, every table was taken.”

Other developments in the pipe line include a covered outside seating area with heating and lighting which will be ready soon and the introduction of a Quiz & Curry Supper Night every Wednesday at 8pm for just £5.

This year is Timothy Taylor’s 150th Anniversary and to celebrate the occasion the enterprising couple are also selling special bottled beer packs which include a bottle of Landlord, Celebration Ale and Havercake Ale, a beer first brewed to recognise the Keighley brewer’s association with the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, whose soldiers have always been known as the Havercake Lads.