Up Holland based brewery, Mayflower’s best bitter, Tower Hill, was being served from the pumps in the House of Commons’ Strangers Bar this past week as a guest ale.

Members of Parliament are allowed to nominate local brewers to supply the House of Commons with a guest ale.

Mayflower Brewery is run by husband and wife team, Al and Tracy Branagan, from Wellcross Farm on Tower Hill Road in Up Holland.

Brewery owner, Al Branagan said:

“It was a real honour and privilege to be asked to supply our local brew to the House of Commons, especially with 2011 being our 10th anniversary. 

“I would like to thank Rosie for her help and support in making this happen.

“At Mayflower we pride ourselves on being part of the local community and our ethos is about being local.  About 99% of sales are within a couple miles radius of the brewery. 

“It’s great to show people that there are good things happening and good beers brewed in places like West Lancashire.  Our next stops are the Sulby Glen Beer Festival in the Isle of Man later this month and the Great British Beer Festival at Earls Court in August.”

West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper
“It is very rare that you will find me in the bars in Parliament but it was a pleasure to go along to the Strangers Bar for half a pint of best bitter that was brewed right here in West Lancashire, our very own Tower Hill.

“It is vital that we support micro-breweries like Mayflower.  There is a real craft and dedication to the art of brewing great beers.  I am pretty sure that the regulars and visitors to the bar will have enjoyed their pint of Tower Hill.

“I would say to all West Lancashire residents that if you’re out for a pint and you see a Mayflower beer then give it a try and support our local brewers.”

MP Rosie is a member of the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group, which aims to support the work of local brewers and the role of pubs in our communities.

You can find out more information about the brewery, which has tours and welcomes groups to sample their selection of beers by visiting www.mayflowerbeer.co.uk