Kent-based brewer Shepherd Neame has become one of the first partners of the British Institute of Innkeeping’s campaign to promote alcohol education.

As part of the “Schools Hospitality Project”, the Faversham brewery has been working directly with a number of schools and colleges. 

It is training some of its staff to become outreach counsellors, who will give educational talks to students.

Shepherd Neame has already signed up with The Queen Elizabeth Grammar School and The Abbey School in Faversham, among others. 

Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Shepherd Neame, said: “Allegations of binge and underage drinking are extremely concerning and we need to give young people the confidence and knowledge to experience alcohol with maturity.

“We feel that as a responsible brewer and pub operator we must be involved in ensuring that our youngsters are well-informed about the dangers of alcohol misuse”

The brewery also sponsors a Kent Peer Drama Competition which aims to raise awareness of young people’s issues.

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By Owen Hill

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