Everards of Leicestershire and Twycross Zoo welcomed guests to Everards Meadows Beer Hall last night to celebrate the launch of ‘Hazelnook Amber’, a limited-edition beer created to support the conservation of one of the UK’s endangered native mammals.
The amber ale has been developed as part of a wider collaboration between the independent brewery and the zoo, with 25 pence from every pint sold going towards supporting Twycross Zoo’s Hazel Dormouse conservation project and its wider global conservation efforts. The launch event brought together partners, press and guests for an informal evening of beer tasting, talks and behind-the-scenes brewery tours, offering insight into both the brewing process and the conservation work the collaboration supports.
Jon Elks, Head Brewer at Everards, shared the inspiration behind the collaboration: “When Twycross Zoo approached us about the project, it felt like a natural fit.
“The meadows here at Everards are designed with biodiversity in mind, so supporting a local conservation effort like this really resonated with us. It’s a beer that not only tastes great but also gives something back.”
Attendees also heard from Dr Rebecca Biddle of Twycross Zoo, who spoke about the impact of the initiative: “Hazel dormice have declined significantly across the UK, and until recently they were extinct in Leicestershire.
“Following last year’s reintroduction programme, we’re already seeing encouraging signs, including evidence of breeding. Partnerships like this are vital in helping us continue that work and raise awareness of the importance of protecting native species.”
Hazel dormice, once locally extinct in the county, were successfully reintroduced last summer through a programme supported by Twycross Zoo. Early signs of breeding have already been recorded - a significant milestone for a species that has declined by around 70% in the UK since 2000.
Dr Biddle added: “There’s often a perception that conservation is focused on more exotic species, but British wildlife is just as important. The hazel dormouse is a brilliant example - a small, distinctive species that plays a key role in our ecosystems and deserves protection.”
‘Hazelnook Amber’ will be available across Everards pubs in the Midlands for a limited time, offering drinkers the opportunity to directly support conservation efforts with every pint.
