Copyright 2006: B. United International Inc., All rights reserved.
Nick Stafford’s Hambleton Ales was established in 1991 in the hamlet of Holme on Swale, situated on the banks of the River Swale in the heartland of Hambleton District.
Nick Stafford was made redundant twice within seven months during the worst recession since the Second World War and set out to earn a living without relocating.
Picture: Nick Stafford.
Despite severe underfunding, and after only a few months, awards, employment and growth were significant features of this business. Financial targets were met months early (the first year’s turnover being £100,000) and after just three years the brewery had to be relocated within the hamlet. In 1997 Hambleton Ales gained the coveted award of CAMRA Champion Winter Beer of Britain for its Nightmare brand. Nightmare is now exported regularly to the USA . Turnover is now over £800,000.
Never compromising on quality of products or service, Nick and his wife, Sally, developed a small family business dedicated to those living in Hambleton and the surrounding countryside. Local people are employed, now numbering 17 and wherever possible local suppliers are used. Malted barley, the main ingredient, is purchased exclusively from Fawcetts of Castleford.
Needless to say, Hambleton Ales serves many local communities because it is the brewery’s business to supply Hambleton District pubs and restaurants.
