THE opening of an expanded tap room at McColl’s Brewery, in Evenwood, has been welcomed by those who helped pay for it through a crowd-funding appeal.
More than 100 people enjoyed beers, spirits, wine and food, all local to the North East, over the two-day
opening event at the brewery, on Randolph Industrial Estate.
Brewer Danny McColl said it was a “near on vertical learning curve” ensuring Covid-19 rules on face masks, social distancing and table-service only were adhered to when the doors opened on the Friday.
He added: “During the opening it was busy for every minute.
“It was different but it was brilliant. The atmosphere, the comments and support were unbelievable.
“I was genuinely overwhelmed.”
The crowd-funding appeal for support to expand the brewery’s tap room was made during the height of the Covid-19 crisis. People were awarded vouchers according to how much cash they contributed.
Almost a third of the vouchers were redeemed during the opening weekend, with people travelling from as far as Shildon to show their support.
Along with McColl’s own beers, the tap room also sell gin and whiskey from Number Twenty 2, based in Darlington, and wine made in Gateshead.
Mr McColl said: “It is about representing the North East and shouting about the quality, as well as helping each other out.”
Mr McColl said: “I wish I had done this two years ago. I am very proud, relieved, happy, the lot – and to think this is happening on an industrial estate in Evenwood.”
Visit https://mccollsbrewery.co.uk/ for details of future events.
