CAMRA slams Gale's decision

The Campaign for Real Ale has slammed the decision by Fuller's to end beer production at Gale's brewery in Hampshire.

CAMRA had helped raise a 5,000 sigbature petition against the end of brewing at Horndean but its 'Save Gales' campaign has failed.

CAMRA Chief Executive Mike Benner said: "This is a black day for the people of Wessex who fought so hard only to be let down so badly." ​

"We are appalled at Fullers decision. Thousands of supporters rallied behind the Wessex branches of CAMRA when a Save Gales Campaign was launched following the shock takeover announcement in November. But Fuller's has simply brushed the overwhelming public concern aside and continued with its own agenda."

Keeping a close eye​"Fuller's has made assurances that the main Gales brands - HSB, Butser, Festival Mild and Prize Old Ale - will remain. However we will be keeping a close eye on the beers to ensure they do not become seasonal or disappear altogether. It's questionable whether 'Horndean Special Bitter' (HSB) brewed in Chiswick will appeal to Hampshire drinkers, or indeed whether the beers will taste the same."

£3million savings​"Fullers justified the closure by saying it expects to make savings of around £3 million. This is a small amount to gain in return for destroying a century and a half of Hampshire's heritage and dealing a blow to all fans of Gales beers."

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