Seventh generation of brewing dynasty

l Proud father Rob Theakston (right) with baby Sam and grandfather Paul

July 26, 2007: Black Sheep has welcomed a new arrival — Sam Theakston, the seventh generation of the famous Theakston brewing family.

At the same time, new father Rob Theakston has rejoined the family business as assistant brewer, following four years’ training in the brewing industry.

Black Sheep managing director — and proud grandfather — Paul Theakston, said: “Our family has been brewing beer since 1827 and I’m delighted Rob is back with us, complete with diploma and extensive industry training, to become assistant brewer. And with his new baby Sam we hope we’ll be able to keep Black Sheep Brewery in the family for another generation to come.”

Rob added: “It’s a bit too early for Sam to be thinking about his role in the brewery – but he does love his Black Sheep bear! Our family has a great brewing heritage and it will be an honour to continue making great tasting beer for our customers under the Black Sheep name.”

The Black Sheep Brewery, in Masham, North Yorkshire, currently supplies some 700 outlets throughout the North of England as well as UK wholesalers and pub chains. Its popular Black Sheep Bitter has just been announced the North East’s favourite cask ale in the Daily Telegraph Cask Marque Best of British Beer Awards.

This year the brewery was also named The Good Pub Guide’s Brewery of the Year for the second year running and is the first brewery in the North of England to receive the industry quality hallmark the Cask Marque Distribution Charter Award.