Hatched over a chat in the Brunswick in Derby, a partnership between Seeing Dogs Alliance (SDA) chairman Liam Flynn and the pub and brewery’s James Salmon has raised £1,000 for the charity. And as a thank you the brewery will name the charity’s next puppy.

The partnership started in September last year, with Brunswick brewery creating a beer to raise money for the SDA. The limited-edition Double Vision Ale debuted at the Brunswick Beer Festival and went on to sell out across several Everard pubs in the East Midlands. 

Following its popularity, a second batch was created, totalling more than 92 barrels and 6,250 pints that were enjoyed across pubs in the East Midlands. 

The job of naming the next SDA puppy will be given to staff of the brewery’s flagship pub, the Brunswick, who donated their tips to the charity.

Flynn said: “That first conversation with James was a lightbulb moment for us. It’s an awesome example of how partnering with local businesses can really make a positive impact on our fundraising.  

“We are a small charity that wants to be able to train more seeing dogs and get them into service. The impact of Covid on the training of enough dogs to support the needs of people like me, living and working independently and positively with the support of a dog, has been monumental. There is a huge gap, and we are committed to helping, but need more funds to support this work. 

“We can’t thank Brunswick brewery and all their teams in the pubs that support our fundraising efforts enough. If there are other businesses looking for a charity to support that really make an impact at a local level, please get in touch with us.”

Brunswick head brewer Salmon said: “Working with Liam and his team of trustees is always a pleasure. They bring laughter and great conversations into our pub whenever they meet and to support SDA's work is the least we can do to provide an opportunity for our clients and pub teams to support great people.  

“The Seeing Dogs Alliance is a worthy national charity working at a local level and we are delighted to help it. We are looking forward to choosing the name of our puppy in due course.”