Dukesfield’s beer – a family connection

The voting booth to name the beer that Geoff Brooker of the Hexhamshire Brewery and Dipton Mill pub is going to produce in the autumn was visited by many at the Slaley Show on Saturday – including by Robert Forster. Robert is from the local family of Forsters amongst whom were the one time licensees of the Dipton Mill in the 1820s – and also lead smelters at Dukesfield. How great is that?

The Dukesfield Smelters and Carriers Project aimed to celebrate and discover the heritage of the Dukesfield Arches & lead carriers' routes between Blaydon and the lead mines of Allendale and Weardale. A two year community project, it was led by the Friends of the North Pennines in partnership with Hexhamshire and Slaley Parish Councils and the active support of Allendale Estates. It was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the generous support of other sponsors. Friends of the North Pennines: Charity No:1137467