The idea took hold in 2009, and the award winning Prospect Brewery, Wigan agreed to act as consultant. “work experience” was provided for our staff. Advice and guidance was given on all aspects of the small independent brewing industry. We registered with H.M.R.C. joined the trade association S.I.B.A, and begun what has become a very positive relationship with the Halton branch of CAMRA. A staff m
ember now attends all local CAMRA meetings, and was guest speaker at this years regional AGM
In March 2010 we were awarded £50k of additional funding, from the governments “bright ideas” initiative, which supports local authorities who demonstrate innovative and imaginative ways of delivering services to their communities. Building work was undertaken to ensure our rooms were suitable and appropriate to house a brewing operation. In September 2010 Porter Brewery Installations, Bury were commissioned to design, manufacture and install the plant. The work was completed in February 2011. Team members have shown a high level of commitment to the venture and have begun to carry out all aspects of the work with skill and enthusiasm. These include mixing, weighing and adding all ingredients. Assembling equipment prior to use and cleaning afterwards. As the business develops team members will also carry out barrelling, bottling and labelling. All feedback has been positive and supportive. We are confident that Norton Brewing will be a success, producing quality beers, providing employment opportunities for people traditionally denied access to the work place, and assisting Norton priory’s development as a visitor attraction.
