North Norfolk brewery named awards finalists after charity efforts

Moon Gazer Ales, in Hindringham, were named national finalists in the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) Business Awards 2023 for Community Engagement after raising vital funds for Norfolk-based testicular cancer charity ‘It’s On The Ball’ over the last year.

The brewery’s fundraising efforts included owner David Holliday pushing a barrel of Moon Gazer ale, weighing 75kg, more than 140 miles.

His nine-day challenge took him through Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, all the way to St Bartholomew's Hospital, in central London.

He now plans to continue the brewery's charity work by pushing the barrel around Norfolk while completing seven marathons in seven days in October this year.

READ MORE: Moon Gazer Ale's new beers raise testicular cancer awareness

Moon Gazer Ales owner, Mr Holliday, said: “To be recognised for this award is an immensely proud moment for the team and me.

“Our plan was simple, that the crazy sight of me walking across country in a bright yellow top with a bright blue barrel would spark the interest in people.

“The challenge, particularly with the age group 18-24, is that they see cancer as an old person’s disease - and they don’t see that they are likely to be a victim.

“Engaging young men in conversation allowed us to explain this and to encourage monthly self-checking."

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It’s On The Ball, which is based at King Street House, in Norwich, say testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 35 years old.

Every year, more than 2,400 men are diagnosed with the disease in the UK - but it is more than 96 per cent curable, especially if treated early.

The SIBA Business Awards ceremony took place in Liverpool in March, with Moon Gazer Ales narrowly missing out to Newcastle's Full Circle Brewery.