Saturday 3rd June saw a party of 20 Railway members and friends take time out from running the Railway to take part in the long planned visit to Goddards Brewery at Barnsley Farm on the outskirts of Ryde.

Mr Anthony Goddard had been approached earlier in the year and had given the go ahead for the visit to take place. A suitable date was eventually decided upon which would fit in with the busy schedules of the majority of those who wished to see the workings of this small, traditionally operated brewery. Luckily the choice of date was proved to be a wise one as the sun shone for us, a marked change from the prevailing conditions so far this year!

Our guide for the occasion was Head Brewer Chris Coleman who gave us a knowledgeable, informative and entertaining explanation of the brewers art which was followed by the inevitable sampling of the brewery's finished products.

A thoroughly enjoyable day out which disproved all previous comments on the ability of Tony Barry to organise a party in a brewery and, as a result, has also raised £85.00 for the Isle of Wight Charitable Trust.

There will be ample opportunity to sample the fine ales produced by Goddards at the Railways Summer Show Real Ale Festival - don't miss it!