Carlsberg UK says Tetley cask bitter is "secure

Carlsberg UK boss Isaac Sheps has given the clearest indication that the cask version of Tetley's Bitter has a future, despite the proposed closure of the Leeds brewery where it is made.

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and beer lovers across the country have long expressed concerns that with the closure of the Leeds site, expected in 2011, brewing of Tetley's cask ale would wither and possible cease altogether.

But, speaking today, chief executive Sheps said the cask version was not only secure, but that next year would see new marketing support for the product and its keg variant.

"We have been looking to outsource production of Tetley's, including the cask ale variety, for some time," said Sheps.

"We have been in talks with brewers in Yorkshire who have the capacity to brew the cask version. I can promise CAMRA it will not disappear."

Sheps declined to "name names", although speculation has surrounded the likes of John Smiths in Tadcaster as well as brewers further afield, including Manchester's JW Lees.

Sheps added that Carlsberg, which today unveiled a seven-year supply deal with managed pub chain JD Wetherspoon, was not looking to sell the brand, rather it wanted to buy production capacity.

Bob Stukins, CAMRA's national vice chairman, said he welcomed the news concerning Tetley's and expressed the hope that brewing of the brand could "remain in its Leeds heartland".