The brewing genius behind the Fat Cat
Brewery’s delicious ales prepares to
roll his wages home.

Interview with Ray Ashworth, 29 March 2007

How did you get into brewing?

My involvement with brewing arose from a passionate interest in home brewing during the 1960s, which led me to get involved with CAMRA during its early years. During the late 1970s, microbreweries were springing up all over the country. At the time, I was working in a bank, but spent my time reading text books about brewing rather than banking. After watching a television programme about the Blackawton Brewery in Devon, my wife suggested that I start my own brewery. This led me to set up Woodforde's Brewery with David Crease in 1981.

What do you consider to be the high point of your time at Woodforde's?

Definitely winning Champion Beer of Britain, first with Norfolk Nog in 1992, then with Wherry in 1996. It is the UK brewing industry's highest accolade, and it was wonderful to get the recognition that our brewing was of the highest quality. It is still gratifying to see Woodforde's has become an established regional brewer, even though I haven't been involved for years.

Are there any beers that you like that you haven't brewed yourself?

Yes, many. I particularly admire beers that are flavoursome despite having a low alcohol content; I would put Adnams Bitter, Fuller's London Pride and Harviestoun Bitter and Twisted in this category.

What made you decide to get involved with the Fat Cat Brewery?

I retired from Woodforde's due to ill health in 1999, and as my health recovered, I began to regret my decision. I started home brewing again, trying out different recipes, I suppose you could call it research work. One evening, while drinking in the Fat Cat, Colin (Keatley, landlord of the Fat Cat), mentioned that he was hoping to set up a brewery, and I asked if I could get involved.

Which of your Fat Cat Beers are you most proud of?

I'm proud of all my beers, but if forced to choose, it would have to be Fat Cat Honey. It was an interesting challenge working with the honey as an added flavour, as none of my other beers have had any unusual ingredients. I'm really pleased with the way it worked out.

What would you like to achieve at the Fat Cat Brewery?

I simply want to continue to create new tastes and flavours, and even better beers. Basically, to create the best beer!