CAMRA celebrates 50 years

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is marking its 50th anniversary today (16 March), celebrating with a host of content, activities and merchandise to be released throughout its commemorative year. 

The organisation was founded in Kruger's bar in Dunquin, Kerry, by Michael Hardman, Graham Lees, Jim Makin and Bill Mellor, who were opposed to the growing mass production of beer within the British brewing industry. Today, CAMRA campaigns for real ale, pubs and consumer rights across the country.  

"Our 50th anniversary comes on the heels of perhaps the most difficult year on record for the pub and beer industry, after months of lockdowns and unfair restrictions," says Nik Antona, CAMRA national chairman. "While acknowledging our birthday celebrations, we must reaffirm our commitment to fighting for pubs and consumers now and in the future, to ensure there are good pubs serving good beer in every community for the next 50 years."

CAMRA will be marking its 50th anniversary throughout 2021 with a selection of content, such as a 50th anniversary book, a list of 50 campaigning milestones, an awards ceremony and much more.