Ivor Chittenden

During my time at the New Union Tavern I worked as general bar staff. Responsibilities included changing barrels, cleaning lines, serving cask ale, wine, gin and whisky. I also covered the owner when he took holidays. The New Union Tavern was known for its cask ales, speciality Gin and Malt Whisky selection. We hosted private events such as Malt Whisky tasting evenings, working with various distilleries. The owner also organised Beer Festivals at the venue which I assisted at. The pub was in a town location with customers being both local regular residents and visiting tourists.

During 31 years at The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, I developed my skills in the very busy hiker's and hotel bars. I carried out all aspects of bar work including general bar work and ordering, cashing up and banking. Over time, I gained the role of head barman and was given free rein by the owner over the choice of Real Ales that we offered, becoming responsible for the ordering of beers, wines, spirits and bar snacks. I generally kept 4 permanent ales and 3 guests on most of the time. Turnover of beer was quite high as it was a popular location and we were known for the range of choice available. Changing barrels and keeping lines clean was an important aspect of this. Other responsibilities included setting up and cleaning of the bar before and after service as well as looking after hotel guests in the residents bar. I am used to working in extremely busy situations with others. This included many folk festivals and special occasions held at the hotel and pub. I trained incoming new members of bar staff; teaching skills including serving cask conditioned ales and using the Till. I was also able to advise both pub and hotel guests on their choice of beers, wines and spirits using my extensive personal knowledge.