The North West Beer Appreciation Society (NWBAS) is a group which was founded by Christopher Griffiths during the summer of 2020.

On 8 July, the Facebook group was started with just Chris and two of his friends so they could have a drink together online whilst the pubs were closed.

After ten months, the small group is now almost at 700 members, who are predominantly Preston-based craft beer enthusiasts.

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Chris, from Preston, is admin of the group and the other original members moderate.

The trio have hosted virtual pub quizzes and online drinking nights to keep people social during the lockdown.

The group have also been sponsored by pubs like The Plug & Taps, Moorbrook and Winkley Street Ale House, who have provided beers for raffles.

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Chris said: “I’ve had some great feedback from members with regards to the mental health benefits of the group.

“Supporting local is a big thing for the group and with pubs reopening this will keep going strong. The groups first birthday is in two months and there’s a big plan in the pipeline to celebrate.”

To join the group, click here.

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Are you a member of the group? Did it help you during the lockdown? Let us know in the comments below.