From the FST - 27 October 2008

Grain, a brewery based in South Norfolk have tackled the economic downturn head on, by devising their own currency, the Grain Pound. Issued by the Bank of Grain, the Grain Pound has so far held fast against the British pound, whilst other rates of exchange have fluctuated dramatically.

One of the brewers, Phil Halls, made this statement: 'Beer is a precious commodity, and although less valuable by the ounce than gold or silver, it satisfies your thirst and tastes a whole lot better. We therefore have high confidence that beer will see us through the rough times ahead'.

The International Global Monetary Fund's latest assessment of the world economic outlook says that, despite the major economies being in a desperate situation, Grain beer as a desirable commodity, is providing relief and enjoyment to many, as this graph clearly demonstrates.

Alistair Darling, Chancellor of the Exchequer, declined to comment.

find out about the Grain Pound