Ale taster needed for town market

A job tasting drink and food is being advertised in Bedfordshire.

Luton's indoor market is resurrecting the role of ale taster and is looking for suitable volunteer candidates.

In medieval times the ale taster would visit stalls and inns on market days and at fairs to ensure alcoholic drinks and other produce were of good quality.

The role disappeared in the early 19th Century, but is now being brought back. The future employer said a "genuine love of food and drink" is essential.

'Sound knowledge'

Town and Country Markets, which runs the market, is advertising the job.

Chief executive Malcolm Ball said: "Although the attraction of such a role may seem obvious at first, the 21st Century version would incorporate many more responsibilities than the original.

"Modern tastes have evolved and become so much more sophisticated in recent times and people demand ever greater levels of quality and variety.

"We fully expect this to be reflected in the calibre of applicants.

"The successful candidate will have a sound knowledge and genuine love of food and drink, local expertise in these areas being particularly attractive."

Applicants will be considered by a panel of judges and four people will be short-listed to complete a number of challenges to demonstrate their knowledge and ability.