Prince of Wales becomes Liveryman of the Brewers’ Company

“Beer is proof God loves us”, said The Prince of Wales.

On a memorable evening of ceremony, conviviality and friendship His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales attended an event at Brewers’ Hall to mark his joining the Worshipful Company of Brewers as a Liveryman, on 25 February 2016.

Brewers’ Company Master Miles Jenner, who is Joint Managing Director and Head Brewer at Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes, East Sussex, said: “The Brewers’ Company symbolises the proud heritage of our industry and the philanthropic role it has long undertaken.

“It is a great honour for us to recognise the work of The Prince and his charities and we are delighted he has accepted our invitation to become a Liveryman of the Brewers’ Company.”

His Royal Highness has shown a great interest in the industry for many years through his Duchy Original ales and his role as Founder and Patron of the Pub is the Hub initiative. The Prince was also named Beer Drinker of the Year in 2002 by the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group.

As well as attending the ceremony, His Royal Highness was shown the Royal Charter that was granted to establish the Company, saw some of the ales that are brewed by members of the Livery and attend a reception to hear about the work the company does – in particular with helping to improve the opportunities for young people in education.

The Company is the Trustee to the Brewers’ Research and Education Fund, a major brewing industry charitable fund that grants awards to support the brewing industry through relevant scientific research and education.

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales thanked the Master, Wardens, Past Masters, Members of the Court and other guests. Expressing his gratitude for being made a Liveryman, he said: “Nothing could make me more proud if I may say so. Quite why you wanted to, I don’t know – whatever it is, I’m deeply touched.”

The Prince added: “I’m so worried about a loss of rural pubs. The great thing was to try and ensure that we could at least keep some of these places going by finding new uses ,so that’s what we’ve managed to do.”

And he reminded those present of a quotation by Benjamin Franklin, “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.”

Today, the Brewers’ Company is active in promoting the brewing industry by providing a meeting place and facilities for member companies. Its membership includes 47 of the country’s largest breweries accounting for approximately 80 per cent of beer brewed in the United Kingdom.