The Guild of Beer Sommeliers, which is designed to promote professional standards, foster education, connect communities and celebrate beer diversity, has announced its maiden companies as patrons of the guild.

Breweries that include Harvey’s Brewery, Timothy Taylor’s & Co, Ossett Brewery, Wells & Co, Triple Point Brewery, Asahi UK are among the first patrons that also include pub companies JD Wetherspoon, Cheshire Cat Pubs & Inns, Fuller Smith & Turner.

In addition the WSET (Wine and Spirit Education Trust), BBPA (British Beer and Pub Association), SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers and Associates) complete the guild’s first patrons.

Their support will help cover the guild’s administration costs and contribute to its marketing resources.

Paul Nunny, chair of the guild advisory board said, “We welcome our first patrons on board as valued partners to build on our mission to foster education and knowledge about beer, and to promote the Beer Sommelier training and accreditation programme”.

Miles Jenner, director and head brewer at Harvey’s said, “We are delighted to become a Patron. We will be encouraging key members of our staff (in brewing, marketing and sales) to put themselves forward for training and we will support them financially in their pursuit of this accreditation.”

Neil Walker, SIBA head of comms and Guild of Beer Sommeliers board member said, “SIBA is delighted to become a Patron of the Guild of Beer Sommeliers, helping to promote beer education nation and excellence in the UK.

“I have personally found my Beer Sommelier accreditation incredibly useful throughout my career in beer and look forward to helping the Guild encourage brewers, licensees, beer communicators and beer industry professionals gain this incredibly worthwhile qualification.”

Since the Guild was formed 16 new Beer Sommeliers have been accredited, joining a community of over 200 Sommeliers globally.