Anyone want to drink ale for a living?

2009 11 26 - 07:11 | Jeremy

In the medieval era, every town would have had an ales taster. It was an important role, ensuring quality and making sure people got value for money. William Shakespeare's dad was the master of ales in Stratford Upon Avon. Nowadays we have the Food Standards Agency to look out for dodgy food and drink, but the job survives as a ceremonial role. Luton hasn't had one since the early 19th century, but Luton's market traders recently placed a job ad, reopening the position with a few differences.

"Although the attraction of such a role may seem obvious at first", Malcolm Ball of Town and Country Markets cautions, "the 21st century version would incorporate many more responsibilities than the original. Our ceremonial ales taster would become an ambassador for the promotion of food and drink in the town." If a job drinking beer sounds too good to be true... well, it is. There's more to it than ale, and it's a strictly voluntary position.

However, it struck me as a nice little transition opportunity to promote local and seasonal food in Luton. As oil becomes more expensive, local food will become increasingly important. Anything that reduces oil use in both production and transport is to be welcomed. Likewise, seasonal food uses less energy, has lower food miles and lower CO2 emissions. It also tastes better. As Luton's ales taster, you'd have the opportunity to spread the word and get the town thinking about food and drink. Anyone up for the task?

You've got until January 16th to apply, and you can find all the details at www.lutonalestaster.co.uk

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