The Black Country Inns pub chain has taken over the ‘Bitter Suite’ pub in Lichfield and after refurbishment it will go back to its original name ‘Bridge Tavern’, and opening soon. Also with Black Country Inns – the gaffer from the ‘Pretty Bricks is leaving for the ‘Merry Boys’, and Holly (Kim’s daughter) from the BCA is going to take over as landlady. Reports suggest that this pub is haemorrhaging customers like mad so maybe a bit more support is called for?
Does anyone remember the ‘Three Men in a Boat’ pub on the Beechdale? ‘Slade’ used to practice there in the 60’s. It was named after Jerome K Jerome’s funny book of that name (the only comical thing he ever wrote of note, the follow up ‘Three Men on the Bummel’ was not a hit) but he was Walsall’s own and so the council made a comical clock depicting said 3 men and placed it in the Saddlers Centre where no one could see it. Many years later, it was found in storage somewhere and the council have now decided to erect it again in the refurbished Saddlers Centre (probably somewhere no one can see it again) but it’s worth looking at – but only on the hour, when it does something !
AJ’s Brewery: Andy’s opening 3 times in September for ‘cask ale week’ – 13th, 20th, and a beer festival on 27th Sept . All days 1200 – 2100; and he’s bottling ‘Dukey’s Delight’ for availability in 8-
Beowulf Brewery: Brewing as usual -
New Invention Brewery: Karel is still knocking out some stunning beers, some of them cask; but for up to date information see their ‘Facebook’ page.
Diary dates: Tamworth Beer Festival, 4-
And finally: “I can’t remember how to write 1, 100, 51, 6 and 500 in Roman Numerals -
IM LIVID.”
Stay safe and healthy !
…Bob..
Autumn Newsletter 2025 continued