Hook Norton Brewery has produced a special ale, JB’s Journey, to support former Banbury Rugby Club captain and coach John Baker, who suffered a serious spinal injury during a match in November 2024 and lost the use of his legs and arms.
John’s wife Tina, daughter Georgina, and family friend Paul Jackson joined brewer Robin Underwood at Hook Norton for brew day, taking part in milling, mashing and hop additions before signing the first cask.
The beer will launch at Banbury RUFC at the club’s next home game on Friday 6 December, and then pour in selected local pubs. Proceeds go to the JB Foundation, set up to support John and his family during his recovery.
Mark Graham, Hook Norton Brewery marketing manager, said:
“I played with John and worked with Tina, so this is very personal. Beer and rugby go hand-in-hand, and we’re proud to support the club and everything they do.”
Baker, a long-time club figure as first-XV captain, second-team head coach, Colts head coach and Vets (Old Nicks) player, was injured on 13 November 2024 and underwent two major operations.
In January, BBC News reported that John’s daughter Georgina had begun a “12 hikes in 12 months” challenge to raise funds and awareness for the RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF), England Rugby’s charity for players with life-changing injuries. By late spring the total had surpassed £21,000, with the IPF providing practical support to the family during rehab and the transition home.
At a glance
- What: JB’s Journey charity ale by Hook Norton Brewery
- Why: To support John Baker and the JB Foundation
- First pour: Banbury RUFC, Fri 6 Dec (next home game)
- Also pouring: Selected local pubs (check with your local)
- Beneficiaries: JB Foundation (family fund); readers can also support RFU Injured Players Foundation
So if you are at the rugby club this weekend, be sure to try JB’s Journey and raise a glass to John’s recovery.
