Beer festival uses goddess statue to entice women

Organisers of a beer festival in Staffordshire are planning to parade a specially-produced statue of a Sumerian goddess in an effort to make the event more female-friendly.

The statute of Ninkasi – the Sumerian goddess of beer and brewing – will take centre stage at Leek Beer Festival on 2 and 3 November.

In a blend of traditions, the statue of Ninkasi will be attached to poles and carried through the town in the style of a Roman Catholic procession.

In addition, pubs participating in this year's event will be encouraged to decorate their premises with blue and purple balloons.

The Ninkasi statue was made by local artist Chris Thompson.

It will be the centrepiece of the procession launching this year’s beer festival, starting at midday on the Saturday, from The Fountain pub on Fountain Street.

The parade will take in The Beer Cave, The Roebuck, The Cock, The Den Engels and The Brewcies before finishing at The Wilkes Head on Edward Street.

Councillor Bill Cawley said he first learnt about Ninkasi after reading a history of Babylon.

He said she was described in ancient literature as “a celestial barmaid” and is often depicted holding a tray with a bowl sitting on top of it.

“As Leek is already known as the Queen of the Moorlands, I think it is quite apt to celebrate Ninkasi at this year's event,” he said.

“Especially as many of the pubs taking part in the festival are staffed by women or have women owners.”

He added that Staffordshire Moorlands District Council had worked hard to create town centres where women feel safe and can enjoy themselves.

“Festivals of this type should be welcoming to everyone with an interest in enjoying beer and real ale,” he added.

In addition to the annual beer festival, Leek also has an established Real Ale Trail, with more information available from Leek Tourist Information Centre.

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