King enjoys ‘a slurp’ of beer during tasting session at Staffordshire brewery

A Royal Visit to Staffordshire: Celebrating Tradition and Innovation

The King recently embarked on a visit to Staffordshire, where he immersed himself in the region’s rich industrial and cultural heritage. His itinerary included a stop at the family-owned Tower Brewery in Burton Upon Trent and a tour of the world headquarters of JCB, a iconic construction equipment company celebrating its 80th anniversary. The visit was not only a nod to Staffordshire’s traditions but also a testament to the King’s connection with the people and industries that define the region.

A Cheeky Pint at Tower Brewery

At Tower Brewery, the King was greeted with a warm welcome and a pint of "Gone For A Burton," a traditional mid-strength beer brewed by the brewery. Brewery owner John Mills playfully asked the King if he would enjoy "a slurp" of the beer, to which the King humorously replied, "If I wasn’t, I’d be in the wrong place." Raising his pint, he toasted to "your very good health" before jokingly suggesting he could share the rest with the gathered media. The lighthearted moment showcased the King’s wit and his ability to connect with the people he meets.

Mr. Mills then joined the King at the brewery’s bar, where they sampled the company’s Imperial IPA, a nod to Burton’s historical role in exporting India Pale Ale in the 1820s. The conversation turned to stronger spirits when the King was introduced to The Spirit Of Burton, a 41% proof spirit distilled from IPA. After taking a sip, the King, known for his appreciation of whisky, described it as "interesting – yes, it’s supercharged." The exchange highlighted the King’s curiosity and appreciation for craftsmanship.

A Celebration of Industry at JCB Headquarters

The King’s visit to JCB’s world headquarters in Staffordshire was a celebration of innovation and manufacturing excellence. The company, founded by Joseph Cyril Bamford CBE, marked its 80th anniversary with a royal visit. The King toured the factory in Rocester, meeting employees, apprentices, and their families. He also participated in a hands-on activity, fitting a tyre to a backhoe loader, a machine invented by JCB’s founder. The visit coincided with the production of the one millionth backhoe digger, a milestone that underscores JCB’s enduring impact on the construction industry.

The backhoe loader, often credited with revolutionizing construction by replacing manual labor with mechanized efficiency, has become an iconic symbol of JCB’s ingenuity. The King’s involvement in fitting a tyre to the machine was a symbolic gesture, reflecting his support for British manufacturing and his willingness to engage with the people behind the innovations.

A Royal Nod to Heritage and Innovation

The King’s visit to Staffordshire was a blend of tradition and progress, reflecting the region’s dual identity as a hub of historical significance and modern innovation. At Tower Brewery, he honored the centuries-old brewing traditions of Burton Upon Trent, while at JCB, he celebrated the cutting-edge technology that has made the company a global leader.

The visit also demonstrated the King’s ability to connect with diverse audiences, from brewery owners to factory workers. His interactions were marked by humor, curiosity, and a genuine interest in the people and processes he encountered. Whether raising a pint or fitting a tyre, the King’s presence underscored the importance of preserving heritage while embracing innovation.

A Royal Touch: Humor, Curiosity, and Connection

Throughout his visit, the King’s personality shone through in moments of humor, curiosity, and connection. From his cheeky remarks about sharing his beer with the media to his enthusiasm for sampling The Spirit Of Burton, the King’s lighthearted demeanor made the visit memorable for all involved. At JCB, his willingness to engage in hands-on activities highlighted his down-to-earth approach and his commitment to acknowledging the hard work of those behind the scenes.

The King’s visit to Staffordshire was more than just a formal engagement; it was a celebration of the people, traditions, and innovations that make the region unique. By immersing himself in the local culture and industries, the King reinforced his connection to the community and left a lasting impression on all who met him.