Faversham-based brewer Shepherd Neame has struck a deal with the R&A, organisers of this summer's The Open golf tournament, to become the event's official beer supplier.

The 149th Open takes place at Royal St George's in Sandwich from July 15-18 and is expected to pull in up to 32,000 fans a day.

Originally due to take place last summer, it was postponed for a year. Earlier this year it was confirmed as one of a number of test events allowing bigger crowds to attend with the impact monitored.

The event takes place just days before many of the restrictions imposed by the government, due to Covid, are lifted.

As the official supplier, Shepherd Neame’s will be on sale in Royal St George’s exclusive clubhouse, and at bespoke outside bars erected around the course.

The popular Shepherd Neame beers Spitfire Lager and Whitstable Bay Black Stout will be bottled for the occasion, with a limited number available exclusively for the public on its online shop. It is the first time Whitstable Bay Black Stout is available in a take-home format.

Shepherd Neame’s chief executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are incredibly excited to be partnering with the R&A for this historic sporting occasion in our Kent homeland. The Open is a world-renowned event, presenting an opportunity to drive footfall to the local area, and showcase what the wider Garden of England has to offer.

“The 149th Open will undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost for the tourism and hospitality sectors in Kent, and, after such a challenging year, it is fantastic to finally have such a positive, exciting event to look forward to.”

John Espley, director of commercial partnerships at the R&A, added: “We look forward to working with them to offer our fans and guests a range of high quality and enjoyable local products at the championship when The Open returns to the region for the first time since 2011 in July.”

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