It's no longer the One and Only

by MA Reporter A Norfolk micro brewer has come up with a cheeky response to Scottish & Newcastle's decision to close the brewery that produces Newcastle Brown.

Reepham Brewery is producing Tyne Brown, an attempt to replicate the famous bottled beer, but in a cask version.

Head brewer Ted Willems said: "I believe that regular Newcastle Brown drinkers will recognise the inherent characteristics of their beer in my brew.

"I intend to make this a regular part of my portfolio and continue to brew it on a regular basis."

The brew has been welcomed by the Norwich & Norfolk branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).

Spokesman Alan Edwards added that he thought S&N would be in breach of the protected geographical indicator (PGI) status afforded to Newcastle Brown by Europe, when production moves from the Tyne Brewery to Federation in nearby Gateshead.

He added: "Long experience has shown that contract brewing of beers away from their place of origin changes the character of the brews."

S&N has asked for the PGI status to be revoked in time for the move, but faces competition from local beer enthusiasts who think the brand's production should not leave the city.

S&N spokesman Nigel Pollard said: "We're very confident that we'll be able to replicate the beer when we move two miles down the road."

He added: "There's nothing to stop anyone producing a brown ale of this type.

We wish them the best of luck."

Meanwhile, Newcastle Brown ale is returning to TV screens with a rerun of its "The One and Only" commercial.

Viewers in the Tyne Tees region will get a second chance to watch the advert, which was last seen on television seven years ago.