There cannot be a band enjoying their fund raising efforts for the National Finals this year more than Skelmanthorpe.

The Yorkshire First Section qualifiers have had bespoke real ale brewed for them — marking not just their Cheltenham trip, but also their 175th anniversary.

Shatter Ale

'Shatter Ale', is produced by local brewery Small World Beers from the village of Shelley, with the name paying homage to the band's home village of Skelmanthorpe — known colloquially as 'Shat'. The affectionate name refers to 'Shatterers' — men who broke up or 'shattered' the hard local rock to help build the Victorian railways.

It's described by well known zythophile (the posh name for beer lover) and Musical Director Martin Heartfield as "…a very commendable ale, certainly good on the pallet with a sweet, malty taste and a fine smooth caramel finish".

Others simply say that it's "a great pint"

We are of course encouraging supporters to 'drink aware' — although that also means that they should be aware that they drink it as often as possible to help us on the road to CheltenhamPaul Oldfield

Donation

The beer can be found at the Foresters Arms in Lower Cumberworth, with the band receiving a small donation towards their Cheltenham trip for each pint sold.

Spokesperson Paul Oldfield told 4BR: "We are of course encouraging supporters to 'drink aware' — although that also means that they should be aware that they drink it as often as possible to help us on the road to Cheltenham.

Hopefully there will be enough still left in the kegs to celebrate with if we do well at the contest too."

Find out more

If you want to try the beer itself, find out more at: www.theforesetersarms.com