Anna Dyson and Ralf Edge are the new faces behind the bar at Derby’s Alexandra Hotel. The couple, who are heavily involved in the local CAMRA branch and Derby’s thriving real ale festivals, are the youngest tenants in the Castle Rock group.

Ralf told the Derby Telegraph that he and Anna met when they were both members of the Derby CAMRA committee. “When the chance came to take on the Alex, I knew we had to grasp it with both hands.”

Ralf and Anna at home at the Alex.

Julian Tubbs of Derby CAMRA told the Telegraph that the rest of the branch were thrilled when they found out Ralf and Anna would be taking on the pub. “The Alex has a special place in real ale history in the city as it hosted the inaugural meeting of the Derby branch of CAMRA.”

The Alexandra Hotel is refurbished inside and out with a new cream coloured exterior and a lighter brighter interior. The plaque to mark the birth of Derby CAMRA in 1974 retains pride of place in the back bar.

Between seven and nine real ales are permanently available on draught alongside a comprehensive selection of wines, spirits and continental bottled lagers.