Stuart's January Message

The Start of a New Beginning

A belated Happy New Year. ‘Happy New Year’ might sound a bit hollow, but it is important that we remain positive. The good times will return, step by step, it’s only a matter of time.

The last 12 months  can be summarised in a few words; NHS, furloughs, social distancing, hand-gels, masks, clapping, infection rates, ‘the science’, statistics, Sir Tom, Netflix, Joe Wicks, shut pubs and ‘substantial meals’ – Oh yes, and Brexit.

How important and concerning has Brexit been since we voted to come out in 2016? And who would have thought that anything could occur which would suddenly change our attitude to one of almost disregard for what the eventual outcome would be. This just demonstrates that what might be a major concern one day, does not remain so indefinitely. So it will be with the pandemic. As an aside, on Brexit, despite most predictions, it would appear that the talked of doom and gloom of a potential ‘no deal’ has receded. Again, so it will be with the pandemic.

At no time in most of our lifetimes, has the expression “out with old and in with the new” been so apt. 2020 is now behind us and we have 2021 to look forward to. Maybe not early 2021, but certainly as the year progresses, there will be a number of steps forward; internationally, nationally, locally, personally and for the Brewery, and we will look forward to and savour, every one of them.

Life can be so fast moving, that we can all be guilty of continually looking forward to the next thing; the next weekend, the next holiday, the next night out, rather than living more in the moment and appreciating it.

We won’t go from our present circumstances, to one day waking up to a return to complete normality. This will happen one step at a time.

There is so much to look forward to; the vaccine, moving down the tiers, mixing with friends, company, hugs!, pubs, eating out, work, increased income, days out, holidays, freedom of movement, improved state of mind, improved security, confidence and reduced apprehension.

Have a Happy New Year ……Step by Step.

All the best,