Library brew gives Darwen beer fans some cheer

3:18pm Sunday 20th April 2008

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AN independent brewery is developing a new beer to mark the centenary of Darwen Library..

Andy Harding, owner of Fallons Ale, Darwen Enterprise Centre, was approached by Blackburn with Darwen Council to create the new ale after they granted him planning permission for the brewery last month.

Mr Harding, 42, only needs a week to brew his yet unnamed bitter but in the meantime he is calling on anyone with ideas for a name to contact him.

The landlord of the Black Horse Hotel, Redearth Road, Darwen, has started putting the ingredients together and will be using galena hops imported from America to help create a flowery', hoppy' and citrucy' taste.

He has decided to produce 720 gallons of the bitter at his premises in Darwin Enterprise Centre.

Mr Harding said: "We were delighted to be asked to brew a special beer for this auspicious occasion.

"It's really exciting. I have been the landlord of the pub for a number of years and we have a good relationship with Darwen Library.

"it is a privilege to be asked.

"It's a light session bitter with a floral aroma. I am sure it will be enjoyed by local people and visitors to Darwen Live and the library celebrations."

Beer drinkers will have the opportunity to have a taste the bitter before the 100 year celebrations on May 27 at the beer tent at Darwen Live music event which is being held over the spring bank holiday weekend on May 24 and 25.

It will also been available at the Black Horse Hotel along with other Fallons brews Red Merkin, Angel Tears and Lancastrian Gold.

Susan Law, head of cultural services for Blackburn with Darwen Council said: "This is a fitting tribute to celebrate another milestone in the history of Darwen.

"What better way of celebrating than using a local company to produce a special beer.

"I'm sure this commemorative ale will go down well with local people and visitors to the town."

There is a programme of events lined up to celebrate the centenary, including a civic event on May 27.

Anyone wishing to name the bitter can email Andy from Fallons Ale at www.fallonsales.com entries to be in by May 17.