Martin, as representative for East Anglia, will represent the campaign in the region and liaise with Campaign for Pubs members and publicans, to help support and protect pubs in the region.

Martin, a retired NHS commissioner, is passionate about of pubs and their role in the community. He first started campaigning for real ale with CAMRA in 1983 and soon realised that saving cask ale was only part of the battle and the real challenge would be to ensure that pubs remain to serve beer to pub-goers.

He has shared his passion for real ale and pubs with friends and colleagues in a career which has taken him from his native Norfolk via Yorkshire and Lincolnshire before settling in Suffolk where he is now based. Recently retired Martin will build on his experience as a CAMRA chairman and beer festival organiser in West Suffolk to lead the support for pubs and pub-goers across East Anglia. Martin has close connections with local pubs and breweries and is keen to get involved building relationships in his new role with the Campaign for Pubs, that was launched in June 2020. Martin is currently vice-chairman for West Suffolk CAMRA and is leading the delivery of the East Anglian Beer & Cider Festival in August. In his spare time, Martin is also a volunteer for the AF Association helping people to “know their pulse” and support people with the Atrial Fibrillation heart condition.

Martin Bate, England’s East Anglia Representative for the Campaign for Pubs said:

“I love the pub and it’s vital role in local communities. I’ve been very active supporting pubs in Suffolk and, by joining the Campaign for Pubs team, I’m looking forward to helping support and stand up for independent pub operators across East Anglia, especially as they come out of what has been the most difficult time ever for them and our region’s pubs”.

Greg Mulholland, Campaign Director of the Campaign for Pubs said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Martin to the Campaign for Pubs team, as our regional representative for East Anglia. Martin has a clear passion for pubs and a great track record as a campaigner for many years. I and we look forward to working with Martin to support the many great pubs and small breweries in East Anglia and working with publicans and campaigners there to support, promote and protect pubs”.

ENDS