Christmas: The ancient tradition of ale conning

The ancient custom of ale conning is thought to have been taking place since the 1300s.

It involves special officers who are appointed to test beer and ale to see if its befitting of the standards required, if not then they have the power to send brewers to the Tower of London.

If approved, a garland is hung outside the tavern to signify that the ale is strong and worthy of the festive season.

In 1949, BBC cameras recorded the tradition in Tower Hill with the Lord Mayor and all the pomp and ceremony you would expect in London.

First broadcast – 23 December 1949