A generous brewery is celebrating after clocking up a quarter of a century of support for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) – in the process raising a staggering £62,500.
Milton Brewery has been running its popular ‘beer tree’ fundraiser since 2001.
The annual initiative takes place every July and ties in with Cambridge’s popular bumps rowing race on the River Cam.
Various worthy causes have benefitted over the years, including EACH, which has one of its three hospices in Milton.
A cheque for £5,000 was recently presented when brewery owner Richard Naisby met up with EACH Senior Corporate Fundraiser Erin Henry.
“It started 25 years ago, in 2001,” said Richard.
“I had some beer left over from a rained-off cricket match, and it was eagerly consumed by thirsty rowers. They drank the ‘beer tree’ completely dry!
“I realised we were onto a good thing, so did the same the following year and have continued ever since, apart from 2020 and 2021 due to Covid.
“We suggest people, rowers or anyone else willing to dip into their pockets make a donation and, to their credit, they give considerable amounts.”
The beer tree has branched out and grown beyond all recognition since 2001, in total raising more than £80,000.
What started with one barrel soon evolved into thousands of pints – all enthusiastically enjoyed by grateful rowers.
Milton Brewery donates the beer, with support from various corporate sponsors helping to cover costs.
“It’s phenomenal, and we feel very proud to have raised so much over the years,” added Richard, who launched his business in June 1999.
“The vast majority of that money has been donated to EACH in Milton.
“It’s a fabulous charity and couldn’t be more local.
“Our business began in the village and, even now, our premises are only down the road in Waterbeach.
“I must add that we’re greatly appreciative of the Friends of the Beer Tree. More than 1,000 pints are consumed during the races, and we’re very grateful to local individuals and companies who sponsor casks during Bumps Week.”
Bumps racing has been taking place on the River Cam since the 1820s.
It allows large numbers of boats to compete against one another because the river is too narrow and winding to host a conventional regatta.
The aim of the race is to catch and bump the crew in front. Crews that bump one another must pull over to allow crews behind to continue, and the finishing order at the end of each day determines the starting order the following day.
During the summer Town Bumps, the beer tree acts as a much-loved marshalling and social stop where competing crews and spectators can get a drink.
Erin said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Richard and Milton Brewery, and it’s remarkable that they’ve been supporting us for 25 years.
“It’s a very special partnership, and we’re so appreciative of their latest kind donation.
“It means a great deal to have such loyal and longstanding support from the community. The money raised helps us continue delivering vital care and support for children, young people and their families across East Anglia.”
