Fenland members enjoyed a minibus trip sampling pubs and beer, along with the essential pub surveys, in the rural areas of Boston. Some of the pubs are in areas best described as remote but found to be well supported and welcoming.

Our first stop was the Castle Inn at Haltoft End, a 200 year old pub on the A52. Here Batemans XB and XXXB were sampled and several customers were already being served lunch. Details of pub hours etc. were noted along with the new change of licensee since the last survey.

The next port of call required negotiating several minor roads and tracks to reach the Butchers Arms at Old Leake / Commonside. It was well worth the effort where a warm welcome from the new landlady of just a few weeks and the 5G was on top form.

On then to the Angel Inn at Wrangle, another welcoming pub especially from the locals who seemed keen to join our expedition! The beer on offer had the hand pump clip Shells Wings - a tribute to the late landlady. The beer itself was 8 Sail Windmill Bitter and the landlord was keen to replenish supplies when the first barrel ran out.

Time to move on to the Bricklayers Arms at Old Leake where Rosey Nosey was a festive treat to savour along with home made cake, XB and XXXB. One of our more luxurious pubs with individual towels in the toilets.

Comfortable seating made it difficult to herd the cats back onto the minibus and the White Hart at Old Leake where further supplies of XB were dispensed.

By now the evening approached as the Fen folk left the busy pub and made their way into Boston and the Eagle and where the bar staff judged the best festive apparel worn by the party. The worthy winner was Bev, our top class driver and best dressed of the travellers.

Following an essential detour the members were dropped off at their respective home areas.

Thanks to Malcolm for organising the itinerary and pub surveys, John for arranging the minibus and Bev for safely transporting the beer cats. Another grand day out.