Spotlight On… becoming a novice
Clint told Glenn that his background was as an IT director in the City. His relationship with the beer industry started when he was the juniors chairman at Watford Rugby Club. A first team player suggested running a beer festival in order to raise money. “Thankfully (through the club) I knew Craig Douglas who ran the amazing Bree Louise at Euston so he was able to offer advice,” he says. “Our festival would have 36 beers and 38 ciders.” Then in 2018, Clint’s brother, Des, suggested that they set up a micropub. “Des needed to take me to one so that I could understand the concept, but I was sold once I saw it.”
The brothers decided to set up in Hemel Hempstead as there weren’t any other real ale venues nearby. Prior to them taking over the pub, the space was a Jennings betting shop.
Spotlight On… new habits
Clint says the name “Monks Inn” comes from two separate places. “Firstly, it reminds me of what I want in a pub – a venue which focuses on beer and conversation (no music or slot machines). Secondly, I am from Durban and a local venue called “Monks Inn” was a rite of passage, of which I have many fond memories!”
While Clint loves what he and Des have created at Monks Inn, it’s a small space so he decided to get a warehouse. “This allows us to buy in bulk, but then we turned the warehouse into a pub too!” To help attract people, they set up a stage so that they could host bands. “We’re actually looking to open a third Monks Inn, but we’re just waiting to see how the current Covid-19 situation plays out.”
Spotlight On… taking the chants (sorry, not sorry…)
Clint puts Monks Inn’s success down to serving great beer and says, “we have created an inclusive venue that anyone (no matter your personal situation) can feel safe sitting around having a beer and a chat.” He says that he knows of romance blossoming for at least one same-sex couple at the pub.
Clint says, “I support brewers that graft away to all hours. I won’t deal with pompous brewers who overcharge.”
Glenn asked Clint how a regular customer would describe his pub. “Good product, good service and old school ethics.”
Clint says he loves all good beer, but if we were to ask him what would be his last beer before passing, “It would have to be a pint of mild, especially Rudgate Ruby Mild.”
The Monks Inn has stocked a range of Beerblefish beers, but Clint says Hoppy Pale Ale No.4 was the most popular so far. He says, “the customers are happy with the beer, but we would love to see more dynamic pump clips!” (Don’t worry, Clint, we’re already on the case!)
Clint says, “Dark beers are very popular with my customers. We are adventurous and like to try different beers.”
Glenn asked about the challenges facing the Monks Inn. “The obvious one is Covid-19. Whilst everyone is impacted to a certain degree, it had me on life-support for several weeks. Thankfully I’m on the mend and I’m working towards being superfit so that I can surf Jeffreys Bay!”
In conclusion, Clint has a simple message for everyone: “Support your local pubs! Support your local breweries!”
Many thanks to Clint for talking to Glenn, and we wish him a speedy continued recovery.
