Out of the 31 pubs that took part in the 2012 Winter LocAle Trail, The Crown in Catfield, east Norfolk can claim the accolade of “Pub of the Trail”.The Winter Ale Trail was organised by the Norwich and Norfolk branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) to encourage beer drinkers to visit pubs that they would not normally visit during the winter month, as well as to support CAMRA's LocAle Scheme which promotes locally brewed real ale.
Graham Freeman, the branch chairman of Norwich and Norfolk branch of CAMRA, said: “During the dark months, the CAMRA Winter LocAle Trail was a beacon to the 31 participating pubs. Many people visited the pubs for the first time and hopefully they will return again.
"The landlords and drinkers certainly enjoyed the experience. We successfully promoted local beers and local pubs which is something to look forward to when the next trail comes along”.
The well attended presentation evening took place on May 29th at the Crown when Graham Freeman presented the certificate to The Crown’s landlady and landlord Pauline and Nando Sappia.
Mr Sappia, who is still making the pub’s lasagne to his mother's secret recipe despite the fact that they have a new chef, said: “This has come as a complete surprise but we are delighted to receive this accolade”. He added: “The increase in footfall and sales was very welcome in the winter months”.
The Winter Trail proved a very popular challenge, with participants able to claim stamps from the pubs over a 3 month period.
Mr Ralph Myton, from East Dereham, commented: “A group of four of us travelled around the pubs, many we hadn’t visited before, and we thoroughly enjoyed our outings. I am delighted the Crown in Catfield won as I voted for them and we would definitely do the trail again”.
He was also very pleased to receive some brewery beer towels in the post after the prize draw, as well as his Winter LocAle Trail T-shirt which he was proudly wearing at the City of Ale Brewers Market at the Forum.
Well done to all those who took part, wear your Winter LocAle Trail T-shirts with pride and see you next time!
