How did you come to work for North?
Back in 2012 I was working at Tequila Bar during university and was feeling like it was about time I stopped working through the nights and focused on my Fine Art degree. My dad was visiting one weekend and we went to The Midnight Bell for a roast, then we went onto The Cross Keys for a pint. Everything about The Cross Keys just seemed a touch above other pubs, the beer selection, the food and the service. When I asked if they had any jobs going they said yes and handed me a questionnaire and the last question was “Batman or Superman?”, that little touch sealed the deal, I wanted to work there. I’ve been with North in various parts of the business ever since. Bartender, Supervisor, Brewer and now Brand Ambassador.
What was your first memorable beer experience?
Sitting on my dad’s lap in the garden as reaching for his can of fosters, genuinely. There’ve been a few beery moments that I think influenced my liking for the industry. My mum and dad grew up in Kimberly, Nottingham. It had its own pretty large brewery and the whole family was pretty proud of it and upset when it came to be sold. Drinking a Sam Smith’s black and tan with my grandad at his local club. Visiting Sam Smith’s pubs, being blown away by their interiors, prices and quality. Visiting Belgium for the first time and being given the biggest drinks menu. Moving to Leeds and drinking Brewfist Caterpillar in the Brudenell Social Club. I think that was the beer that I sipped and had that “Whoah wtf? ”Reaction. Then trying Duchesse De Bourgogne on my first North beer training session. That was pretty mind blowing.
What have you been listening to at work?
I’ve been rinsing Wu Tang Clan recently. Beyoncé’s Renaissance was on heavy rotation before that. Kendrick Lamar is always in the mix, Blink 182, Billie Eilish, Jamie XX and Black Lips always pop up between album binges too.
Where is your favourite spot for a drink?
A good pub with warmth and good cask ale. Cross Keys will always have a dear place in my heart. Whitelocks is always pretty class. The Grove at Bridgewater Place is an unsung hero of the Leeds pub scene. The Meanwood Tavern has just opened and I think about their pizza about 5 times a week. If I’m going for a walk, for the greater good of the group, it’s not at all a selfish endeavour, I’ll try and find the most cosy pub with the best beer. Get a big walk done and that pint in the pub after is just something else. Either that or a super cold, crisp, lager, abroad, in a small local bar, playing cards with my partner Rosie, that’s pretty great too.