Cider triumph for landmark pub

Last updated 11 Aug 2008 12:13 0 Comments

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A READING real ale hotspot has proved once again that there is more to a good pub than just the beer.

The Retreat in St John's Street has been named 'Regional Cider Pub of the Year' for the second year running by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

Licensee Bernie Whiten said: "We are very happy to win the award, as a recognition of our, and our customers' willingness to try something different. Many people want something with taste and are now sampling real cider instead of lager."

Bernie and his partner Jane Marsden have run the Retreat for five and a half years, building up a loyal following of regulars and a virtually guaranteed spot in CAMRA's annual Good Beer Guide.

Jane said: "A good community pub is adaptable - sometimes a music venue, a locals bar, a meeting place, a debating society, a comedy programme, a pool hall. It should offer something for everyone which generates a great atmosphere, which is mostly about the customers, although good beer and cider is also needed."

The pair hosted a Cider Weekend from Friday to Sunday to celebrate their win, and received their award on Saturday afternoon. They even gave tutored cider tastings to visitors wearing distinctive and amusing trousers.

The pub will now be entered in the national finals for best cider pub.

Link: www.retreatpub.co.uk

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 08 Aug 08

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