Noel Ale Going Fast

Swindon's Arkell's Brewery welcomed in the Christmas season on 1 December by launching its annual Christmas brew, Noel Ale, at The Kingsdown pub in Swindon - with the help of its new mascot, Pete the Pint.

This is Pete's second outing, the first was to help promote national Cask Ale week at The House of Commons in London earlier this year.

Just 15,000 pints of Noel Ale have been brewed this year, and they are available in all Arkell's pubs from the cask, or in bottles for those who prefer to take their beer home to drink.

Head brewer, Don Bracher, who was at The Kingsdown to celebrate the 16th year of brewing Noel Ale said, "We brew just once a year for this popular beer and when the last pint's drunk, we have to wait another 12 months to taste it again. So it's not surprising that Pete the Pint wanted to sneak off with a few extra pints at the launch!"

Noel Ale was first brewed by former Arkell's brewer Don Kenchington in 1987 who named it in honour of current chairman Peter Arkell's father, Sir Noel Arkell, who was born on Christmas Day. At 5.5% ABV, it's been a winter favourite in Arkell's pubs since then, as the strong, full-bodied flavour is disguised by a distinctive light colour.

Noel Ale is available at all Arkell's pubs and in some retail outlets from today and costs from £2.20 per pint.

www.arkells.co.uk