A large number of Shakespeare branch members and locals gathered to celebrate the Bell's achievement. Dave Page, Branch Treasurer, explained that as a branch Shakespeare CAMRA not only covers Stratford but as far as Shipston in the south, and Alcester and Evesham to the west, so very much a rural area. The Bell has a huge significance to our branch as it was here in October 1981 that the branch was formally set up. The branch has a number of roles that include selecting pubs for the annual Good Beer Guide, organising and running the Stratford Beer and Cider Festival at the Racecourse, as well as holding branch meetings for like minded ale and cider drinkers to get together. We also as a branch look at pubs that might not be in the Good Beer Guide but we feel should receive special recognition. One such pub is the Bell in Shottery. The branch has decided to award it Pub of the Season for Autumn 2024, recognising the efforts of Sam and her team in the 2 ½ years since Sam arrived at the Bell. One of the first things Sam did when she arrived was to ask the regulars what beer they would like to see as a permanent beer and the winner was Wye Valley, Butty Bach. There are also two Greene King ales available as well as a fourth hand pump which is usually not from Greene King and is often from SIBA breweries. Sam takes pride in the quality and condition of her ales and recognises the importance of cleaning and flushing of the lines. Dave made one final point before formally presentation the certificate to Sam, which was to remind CAMRA members of the 10% discount on cask ales, with production of your membership card.