Old Comrade RBL Poppy Appeal

Hobsons Brewery was approached by members of the Royal British Legion branch of its hometown Cleobury Mortimer to get involved in its 90th Anniversary celebrations. Initial discussions centred on creating a special one off beer and involvement in events planned for July in the town.

The national institution of the Royal British Legion was founded in May 1921; the vibrant market town in south Shropshire was quick off the mark setting up a local branch in July 1921 making Cleobury Mortimer one of the oldest branches in the country.

Hobsons Brewery is a strong advocate of initiatives bringing communities together and jumped at the opportunity to support their local RBL branch. Following discussions with RBL members' plans were set to create a special beer appropriately labeled "Old Comrade". Hobsons pledged to donate 5p from each bottle sale to the Poppy Appeal. Permission was granted from the Royal British Legion HQ for Hobsons to use the Poppy icon and image from the Imperial War Museum collection to create the special beer label.

In May 2011 Hobsons Brewery launched the special edition beer "Old Comrade" commemorating the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion branch in Cleobury Mortimer. Brewed using the finest locally sourced hops and barley teamed with brewing craftsmanship Hobsons created a fresh crisp 4.2% abv real ale labeled "Old Comrade" and donning the red poppy icon. The commemorative beer was initially made available in 500ml bottles and later in Cask.

The Cleobury branch launched their special beer at the Bell Inn, Cleobury Mortimer with the help of long-standing member George Poyner. At the age of 91 George is a popular figure in the RBL and well regarded in the local community, in 2002 George was awarded the MBE for his work for the community, receiving the award from the Prince of Wales.

In July 2011 the Cleobury RBL hosted an array of events to celebrate the anniversary, including an exhibition of militaria, parade, film show, concert, fish and chip supper and a special Enigma evening hosted at Hobsons Brewery.

"Old Comrade" has received great enthusiasm and backing from the local RBL members, retailers, publicans and wider community. Hobsons are very proud to have one of the first founded Royal British Legion branches in the country and felt compelled to support their celebrations and create something that could be enjoyed by members but also allowed the brewery to give something back.