Steve Charnock, an audience writer, has launched a lobbying group called CRAFT – the Campaign for the Return of Asking for Foster's Tops. He emphasizes it is not an environmental protest group but a movement to improve people's lives by encouraging them to order what they really want at the pub. Membership currently stands at one, but Charnock hopes this call to arms will grow.
The case for the Foster's Top
Charnock argues that during a hot summer, a Foster's Top or any lager top is more refreshing than complex craft beers. The world's simplest cocktail, as he describes it, has just enough lemonade to take the edge off a claggy beer when thirsty. He notes that many people order 'the usual' out of habit or peer pressure, rather than what they truly fancy. Charnock suggests that in boozers across the country, people are drinking what they think they are supposed to drink, not what they actually want.
Reclaiming your choice
Charnock urges drinkers to ignore social expectations and Instagram trends. He says if someone does not fancy a pint of creamy stout, they should not order one. Instead, he suggests ordering a white wine spritzer, a Tia Maria and Coke, an alcohol-free Appletiser, or even a tomato juice. He points out that pub landlords are simply happy when customers buy something, as long as it is not a pint of tap water. The campaign also encourages ordering other drinks like Neck Oil, peach Jubel, Laphroaig single malt, or alcohol-free IPA – but only if you genuinely want them.
A broader movement
The campaign's broader mission is to reclaim individual choice in a world full of algorithms and social pressure. Charnock invites readers to apply to join CRAFT. The first AGM will be held at the back of The Devonshire pub. Readers can share their views by emailing Ross.Mccafferty@metro.co.uk or commenting below.
