Brewery helps charity shop targeted by thieves

l Competition winner Simon Wall enjoys a pint of Old Peculier among Theakston's traditionally-made casks

December 22, 2007: Theakston's Brewery has raised £650 with the help of Harrogate’s Stray FM for St Michael’s Hospice in a charity on-air auction.

Following a robbery at the St Michael’s shop in Bilton, Harrogate, last week, Simon Theakston, a long term admirer of the charity, stepped in to help raise funds in addition to those already pledged by the public.

The brewer offered one of its limited edition miniature casks for auction, a meal for two at the newly refurbished Theakstons–owned White Bear hotel in Masham and a personal tour round the brewery.

Simon Wall, a fireman from Harrogate, came up with the winning bid of £325 and scooped the prizes, collecting the cask in perfect time to allow the beer to settle and be decanted on Christmas Day. Tony Eyres, from Easingwold, agreed to match the value of the winning bid, therefore doubling the value of the donation — a true act of Christmas generosity.

In total £950 has been raised for the hospice since the incident.

Simon said: “I am pleased to have been able to pledge my support to such a worthwhile charity as the St Michael’s shop — especially at this time of year. Everyone was very impressed that I was able to offer pub standard Old Peculier, my favourite, for them to drink on Christmas Day. A merry time was had by all and I’m looking forward to going up to Masham for a meal at the White Bear and a tour of the brewery.”

Mr Theakston, executive director of the brewery, said: “The work that St Michael’s do is so important throughout the year, but particularly at Christmas, and it is great to be able to help them in such a way. Due to the incredible support shown we have offered Tony Eyre a meal at the White Bear as well, and a luxury hamper.”

Tony Collins, Chief Executive of St Michael’s, added: “We are absolutely delighted at this wonderful gesture by Simon Theakston. The generosity shown by Simon and by all the listeners who have donated is fantastic and we have been overwhelmed by the support and kindness we’ve received. It is fantastic that in the face of such a sad incident, the true spirit of Christmas has shone through.”

Only 100 of the special casks have been hand-crafted by the brewery’s cooper, Jonathan Manby, this year. He is one of only five remaining coopers in the UK, making Theakstons one of the few brewers left in the country that is committed to the tradition of coopering.

4 Comment on this story at our forum