The Cask Marque Trust is an independent non profit making organisation formed to raise the standard of cask ale served to the customer. It was formed after an independent survey of 1000 pubs in 1997 showed that one in five pints sold were of poor quality, and that temperature at the point of dispense was a very important factor. Cask Marque is jointly funded by brewers and retailers. Local members include Hardys and Hansons Kimberley Brewery, Whitbread Pub Partner -ships and J.D.Weatherspoon. Each licensee who is awarded the Cask Marque has passed two unannounced visits by an assessor who will have checked all the cask ales on sale for temperature, appearance, taste and aroma.
Regular inspections continue to ensure that the standards are maintained.
The landlord is awarded a Cask Marque plaque to be mounted outside the pub. Boothy s Social Club on West Hill Drive. They always welcome comments on the scheme and any recommendations for accreditation. This is a 20-page newsletter, produced quarterly with 3000 copies distributed free in and around the area. A simple 3-letter word but not a simple answer.