Meet Benedict Goodale (real name Paul Boswell), who is Congleton's new Ale Taster for our town's 750th year.

The Birmingham-born man only moved to our town seven months ago, and is now part of Congleton history.

Formerly employed in the brewing and pub industry for over 35 years, the retired Congleton resident was officially made the Ale Taster in a ceremony in The Beartown Tap on Willow Street.

"This role combines two of my greatest passions, history and ale so I just had to step forward," he said. 

Local designer Jenny Unsworth created medieval-style outfits for Ale Taster (left) and Town Crier Rob Moreton. Congleton Mayor Denis Murphy also has a sip.

"I've also had a long career in the pub industry and I thought I could give my knowledge to the world and add something back in to give to the publicans and show them support after what has been a long two years for them."

His character name of Benedict Goodale combines the medieval name meaning 'blessed', and a common Congleton surname from over 750 years ago when the first Ale Taster was established.

Congleton's new Ale Taster will take part in a slew of events across town.

This includes a history week with Congleton school children playing roles of medieval villages, in reflection of the ale taster's multi-faceted role from centuries ago.

During the ceremony, the Ale Taster took an oath to serve and 'behave like a good and faithful minister'.

This will take place on the week commenting July 4.

750 years ago, ale tasting didn't just include beer. It also covered bread throughout the Middle Ages.

Congletonians may also be interested to know that Benedict - or Paul - has a history degree.

He spoke candidly with Congleton Nub News about what he loves about our town.

Congleton: Paul Boswell AKA Benedict Goodale is our town's new ale taster.

"During lockdown I realised how removed I was from my family," he said.

"I have five children and seven grandchildren. And two of my kids live in Cheshire. One in Congleton [West Heath] and one in Chelford.

"We wanted to move back closer to family so we did. And it was actually my wife who made me go for the ale tasting. She said I'd look good in the hat.

"My favourite thing about Congleton is [Astbury] Mere. I walk my dogs there every day. Of course I love the pubs, particularly in the town centre.

"I also love that all the people are so friendly here." Congleton's Ale Taster of 2022 won't have most of the duties of the 1272 Ale Taster. He will not be able to fine the town's publicans or send them to the stocks or prison.

It is hoped the role can be used to positively showcase Congleton's pubs and ales, helping boost our local economy.

You can catch Congleton's Ale Taster at the Congleton Food and Drink Festival on June 12. He'll also attend the Medieval Festival on August 13 and Medieval Banquet on September 30. There are also plans for an Ale Trail and Beer Festival.  

If you would like the Congleton Ale Taster at your event contact [email protected] or please dial 01260 270350 ext 1.

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