The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is reminding beer drinkers that we will cheers again at the local by sharing positive messages about pub re-openings with new social artwork.
The aim is to raise awareness of the pubs we all know and love and share positive stories about locals on social media - whether it be people’s fondest pub memory, or a positive message of a pub acting as a ‘lockdown hero’ in the communities.
Publicans can also print the rainbow image for sharing in their windows, to remind their regulars that their pub is waiting for them once lockdown is over. They might also be used to advertise delivery or takeaway services, and encourage locals to keep supporting their pub.
The distinctive artwork was produced by London-based art director and ale-enthusiast Calum Ray, who wanted the image to offer a glimmer of hope to pubs and drinkers that they will soon be able to say 'Cheers' over a pint again.
It supports the launch of CAMRA’s Pulling Together campaign, which highlights over 3,000 pubs, breweries and cider producers currently offering takeaway or delivery services, as well as the new Brew2You app which helps people to search for and order beer in one place.
Ben Wilkinson, CAMRA’s Pub Campaigns Chair, said, “We hope people will use these assets to share some joy in these uncertain times, whether to locals seeing the rainbow in their pub’s windows or by sharing their happy, fun pub memories across social media.
“People across the nation will no doubt be missing the social interaction of their local pub during this crisis. Pubs are a staple of life for many, a place to have a drink and find a friendly face for a chat. We all have our fingers crossed that circumstances will enable us to be reunited at the pub for a pint and a ‘cheers’ again soon!”
Artist Calum Ray said: “Pubs are such an important part of our social culture. Hopefully this visual can act as a symbol of hope for both people that are separated from their friends and family, and the pubs that are closed with no real end in sight. We'll cheers again.”