By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight’s drinks industry is again making its presence felt in Westminster, with Goddards Brewery’s Ale of Wight now being served in the House of Commons Strangers’ Bar. The move follows the success of Isle of Wight Gin and Mermaid Gin, which were added to the bar’s selection in late 2025, further strengthening the Island’s growing reputation for high‑quality, locally crafted food and drink.
Members of Parliament are able to nominate suppliers for the bar, and Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley put forward Goddards’ flagship ale. He said he was delighted to champion the Island’s oldest brewery: “Goddards holds a special place in our culture and community. Bringing Ale of Wight into Westminster felt like the least I could do to showcase the fantastic talent we have back home.”
Bob Simpson, Isle of Wight General Manager of Powder Monkey owners of Goddards, said: “It was fantastic to visit Parliament and see Ale of Wight on display in Strangers’. We’re incredibly proud to have this celebration of the Island showcased here, and we’re grateful to Richard for making it possible.”
Richard also continues his work supporting Island pubs and hospitality businesses. His sustained lobbying on business rates was recently acknowledged in the Commons, where the Exchequer Secretary praised him as “a relentless advocate for businesses in his constituency”.
The Government’s January package included a 15 per cent rates reduction for pubs.
Mal Butler