Alan Meale is new Beer Group chair
Labour MP Alan Meale has been revealed as the new chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group.
The Mansfield MP replaces John Grogan, who was named Beer Drinker of the Year at the Group's Annual Beer Awards Dinner in London last night.
The Thornbridge Brewery in Derbyshire was named Brewer of the Year. British Beer and Pub Association director of brewing David Long received a lifetime achievement award.
Conservative MP Nigel Evans told diners that he intended to go for the chairman job but was unable due to in his role as deputy speaker in the Commons.
He paid tribute to Grogan, the former Labour MP for Selby who had chaired the Beer Group since 2001.
"John, as chairman of the Group, has been a tireless voice for the industry.
"I can think of nobody better, who during his time in Parliament took every opportunity to champion beer and pubs."
