David Longbottom

David Longbottom, a former executive of Allied Breweries, died this week after a long battle with leukaemia. Longbottom worked in the brewing and pub industry for more than 30 years, during which time he reached senior positions with Joshua Tetley at Leeds and Allied Breweries' former southern division, Taylor Walker, where he was managing director. He began his career with Minister Soft Drinks in Yorkshire. He retired as chairman of Millhouse Inns 18 months ago. Longbottom leaves his wife, Cynthia, and two sons, James and Simon. Champion battle The winner of the Champion Beer of Britain competition will be announced at the opening of the Great British Beer Festival on Tuesday (5 August). Expert volunteers from Camra, the event's organisers, will put forward their nominations. The four categories are: mild, bitters, best bitters and strong bitters. The category winners will then go into a grand final, to be judged by beer writers, tasting experts and journalists. Right blend Coffee can almost halve the risk of cirrhosis of the liver ­ and alcohol drinkers will benefit even more, according to a new study. Norwegian scientists surveyed more than 51,000 adults about their coffee-drinking habits.They said that the risks of cirrhosis were 40% lower among people who drank at least three cups a day compared to those who drank less. The study said that the protective effect is even greater among alcohol drinkers, who have a higher risk of cirrhosis. Doormen licences A pilot scheme for registering door supervisors will be launched in the Isle of Wight and Hampshire next March. From 1 March, bouncers can apply for the new Security Industry Authority licence, which will replace existing local authority licences that become invalid from 4 June. The scheme will then be extended across England and Wales. The final region to take in the scheme will be London, where the new licences will become compulsory from 11 April, 2005.