Wellington head hunts for an ale taster

Despite the hard times currently being experienced by the pub trade, a role is currently being offered for someone with a passion for good ale. The Shropshire town of Wellington is reviving the mediaeval position of Ale Taster for the first time in around 170 years.

The civic position came into being around 1330 after Wellington market was awarded its Charter in 1244. It involved the official post holder sampling and approving ales at stalls and inns on market days. The job is being revived partly as a reflection to the growing interest for local produce.

Sadly, however, the lucky applicant will have to treat the job as its own reward as it has no salary attached to it. The successful person needs to be comfortable with speaking to the media and in front of audiences, and to have a smart appearance as well as, of course, having a passion for local ale. The investiture of the new Ceremonial Ale Taster will take place at an event in Wellington, on Saturday 19th September 2009. Wellington’s Midsummer Fayre takes place this weekend.

More details are available at http://www.townandcountrymarkets.co.uk/shoppers/shoppers-useful-information/wellington-ale-taster

11 June 2009