Woodforde’s, Norfolk’s largest brewery, is celebrating the 45th anniversary of its famous Wherry ale – inviting the company’s original owner to raise a glass at its brewery tap. Here, Ray Ashworth remembers the very first pints being brewed
Woodforde’s Brewery, based in Woodbastwick, Norfolk released amber ale, Wherry onto the market in 1981 and it has become a firm favourite with punters ever since. The 3.8% ABV amber ale has won a host of awards over the years, including being crowned the Champion Beer of Britain. And to celebrate the anniversary, Ray Ashworth, the brewery’s original owner, was invited for a pint and a pub lunch at the Fur and Feather, just yards from the brewery. His visit was made all the merrier with news that Wherry had won yet another award as Norfolk CAMRA’s best session bitter.
Ray said it was “great” to take the walk down memory lane, and added: “When Paul invited me to the brewery to celebrate 45 years since the founding of Woodforde’s, and the very first pints of Wherry being brewed, I couldn’t quite believe that it was so far back in time.
“I remember the brew day quite well and it was a testament to all the folk involved in setting the brewery up that it went so smoothly. I never imagined that Wherry would be such the success that it is, having won two national awards and learning today that it has won yet another award as a best session bitter beer.”
Woodforde’s CEO Paul Sullivan said: “Wherry is the beer we are best known for and a brew we are particularly proud of. Since the first pint was poured it has been a Woodforde’s favourite for good reason – it’s a beautiful, well-rounded ale with a crisp, clean finish that really hits the spot.”
Wherry continues to be widely available on cask in pubs across Norfolk and the wider region, with mini kegs, bottles and cans also available from the Woodforde’s online store.
More information on Wherry and Woodforde’s full array of award-winning ales can be found at woodfordes.com.
Featured image shows Ray Ashworth and former Woodforde’s director Mike Betts visiting the brewery with Woodforde’s senior staff. Credit: Woodforde’s.
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