Bedlam Brewery is releasing The Dame, a limited edition 4.2% ABV amber bitter made in tribute to local resident Dame Vera Lynn, who died in June.
The brewery is based near Ditchling, at the foot of the South Downs National Park, close to where Dame Vera, the Forces’ Sweetheart, resided.
Dame Vera was, says the brewer, and continues to be, a shining beacon of the stoicism that became so entrenched in the British wartime spirit, giving people strength in adversity as a symbol of hope to the Armed Forces community, past and present, bringing joy to the hearts of millions of people during some of their darkest times.
As a thank you from the team at Bedlam for her lifetime of national service, they have decided to do what they do best and produce a beer with which people can raise a glass in her memory, and by doing so, raise funds for a worthy cause. Twenty pence from every bottle or pint sold will be donated by Bedlam to a charity selected in consultation with Dame Vera’s family, who are supportive of the initiative.
The Dame will be available direct from Bedlam between early October through to the end of November, in cask in Sussex, Kent and London, as well as in 500ml bottles nationwide.
Bedlam Brewery chief executive, Bob Emms, said: “We were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dame Vera earlier this year, who leaves so many wonderful memories of the positive messages she portrayed during a dark period in our nation’s history.
“Given the challenges we’re all again facing, we thought we would produce The Dame to enable our customers to raise a glass in her memory and look forward to better times. The imagery we’ve created combines local landmark Ditchling Beacon with a field of poppies, both of which were dear to Dame Vera’s heart.
“So here’s to you Dame Vera, thanks for all the memories you have left us with and on your behalf to all of our customers — keep smiling through!”
