The managing director of Cumbria-based Lakeland Brewhouse has been named a North West regional director of SIBA (the Society of Independent Brewers).
Kirsty Ridge, managing director of Lakeland Brewhouse. Photograph: Milton Haworth
Kirsty Ridge will now work with her industry peers across the UK to promote independent brewers as they prepare to fire up the fermentation chambers ahead of pubs re-opening next month.
Kirsty said: “I’m very happy to have taken up this position and really look forward to working with my colleagues across the SIBA network to continue to promote the excellent work of independent brewers across the UK.
“The last 12 months have been very challenging for all concerned with the brewery and pub industry. The decision to scrap a rise in beer duty at the budget earlier this month was very welcome, but we are by no means out of the woods and now enter a crucial phase in the recovery of the sector.
“Making sure independent brewers have a voice and tirelessly campaigning in the best interests of the industry will be at the heart of everything I do, along with bringing more diversity to a sector which is heavily male dominated.”
Ian Fozard, SIBA’s national chairman, said: “I am delighted to welcome Kirsty to the SIBA board at what is a very challenging time for the UK’s independent brewers.
“I look forward to working with Kirsty to help SIBA navigate the best way forward for our members in a very competitive market.”
Lakeland Brewhouse, formerly Stringers Brewery, brews a selection of ales, including a popular gluten-free range, and supplies pubs across the North West.
