Otter brews beer to celebrate flaming tar barrels event
Every year on 5 November, flaming tar barrels are carried and rolled through the streets of Ottery St Mary in East Devon.
The Devonshire brewery has come out to support the iconic event for the first time this year and has brewed an official beer in its name.
Traditionally, the barrels are set alight at various public houses and hotels around the town, where they are then hoisted onto local people’s backs and shoulders. The final barrel is carried in the square around midnight.
Each of Ottery's central pubs sponsors a single barrel, which are internally coated with old-fashioned tar.
'Fantastic'
Patrick McCaig of Otter Brewery said: “This is an absolutely fantastic visual display that never disappoints! The Tar Barrel tradition around here is hundreds of years old.
“As part of our work to help support the local community this year we’ve come on board as a main sponsor.
“We’ve also brewed an official beer for the event – Flaming Ale – that will be available in four pubs, as well as supplying limited edition T-shirts. It’s a privilege to be involved.”
The pubs taking part are The Volunteer Inn, The London Hotel, The Lamb & Flag Inn and The King’s Arms.
Pictured in the photograph from left to right are: Dave Strawbridge, Ottery Tar Barrels Sub Committee & Tar Barrel Roller, Patrick McCaig from Otter Brewery and Mike Down, Tar Barrel Roller and Landlord of The Volunteer Inn in Ottery St. Mary.
