Joined in 2023 
82 
63 About this deal
He says writing the book was a huge challenge but a form of therapy too, offering the chance for him to reflect on past mistakes and misdemeanours. The straight-talking no-holds-barred autobiography published today (Tuesday, March 15) highlights Karl’s much-loved and often wild sense of humour, which has earned him such a huge public following, particularly among the ever-growing Wrexham AFC fanbase. Bootlegger, who hails from Gwersyllt near Wrexham, has been a well-known figure to supporters of Wrexham AFC for some time but his appeal has now spread to a much wider audience. Over the years, he's become a cult hero through his matchday vlogs and videos of him sinking pints while coining iconic phrases such as “I’ve had an absolute grueller” and “It’s gonna get tasty baby”. Wrexham Lager and social media star Karl Phillips (AKA Bootlegger) have announced that two of their popular beers will be sold in Aldi stores throughout Wales and England from February 3.
While I’ve learnt the hard way, I’ve got no regrets. I’ve made plenty of mistakes over the years, but let it be known: some mistakes are worth making.” What do you think about this story? Have your say in the comments section Read More Related Articles Now, Bootlegger is celebrating his latest success - by having his face appear in every Home Bargains store across Wales and England, around 484 in total.He said: “After a few videos of just larking about, I went on to vlog my match-day experiences. My first was for a home match – Wrexham v. Cambridge. I uploaded the video and titled it ‘Bootlegger MOTD’. It gained a bit of a cult status amongst the Wrexham diehards. Before long, I found myself interviewing various locals. In terms of what the future holds for the company, Roberts stressed that the continued support of its loyal customers was vital. He said: "The main thing for us is that if our customers are happy, then we’re happy. Joss said: “I’m very grateful for how much Bootlegger is a part of this company. He’s given us massive exposure here when Rob (McElhenney) and Ryan (Reynolds) weren’t here. Now in his 40s and a father himself, he admits he did not make life easy for his mum: “Now, knowing the other side after becoming a parent myself, I understand more about the strain of bringing up children. What a pain I must have been! Eventually the strain on Mum was too much.”
Still living in Gwersyllt with partner Claire and their son Iwan, he says he never planned to become a social media star but that his philosophy has always been: “When life throws any opportunities your way, you need to grab ’em while you can. They say ‘God loves a trier’ and I tell you what – I love ’em too. I’ve got a lot of time for anyone who tries to make things happen. I admire anyone that’s got a bit of fire in their belly.” Karl struggled at school and became increasingly wayward, to the point where his mum could no longer cope. In all honesty, I was more interested in going out gallivanting with my mates in the Nineties and doing what young lads do.” This is a major breakthrough, probably one of Wrexham Lager's biggest; to be sold in every single Aldi store in England and Wales. He has also had the rare honour of having a beer named after him – Wrexham Lager’s Bootlegger 1974 – which has made its way onto high street supermarket shelves.But although it is written with a light touch, the book also gives rare glimpses into hardships and sad times which Karl endured in his early years after being born in 1974 to young parents – both aged just 16.
He said: “It took me longer than others to adapt to school, and I was in a class dedicated to the slower learners… The highlight of my day was winding the teachers up… It was all one big game to me, and I was often found outside the headmaster’s office.” But his passion for Wrexham AFC really grew after the club was relegated from the football league, when he developed an interest in making and editing videos and “acting the goat on social media”.He said: "I’m proud to be a part of Wrexham Lager and we’re finally making strides forward so that anyone can reach the beers locally. It’s another huge step for mankind." Joss Roberts of Wrexham Lager added: "We’re very pleased to see that Home Bargains see the true potential our products have with giving us a national listing straight off. I'd like to say a massive thank you to everyone who does support us, every single bottle is greatly appreciated and we are just enjoying the ride with you." They include high adventures at home and abroad. He talks of trips to Jamaica, Thailand, India, Spain, Malta and France, among other worldwide destinations. Bootlegger himself was absolutely delighted with the news, he said: "I think it's a monumental day for Wrexham Lager and the town of Wrexham.
He was dumbfounded when offered the chance to publish his autobiography but he believes there are a lot more tales in him yet.
social
The social media sensation has been credited with helping raise the profile of the historic brewery firm and has in the past posted a series of humorous videos online- in which he drinks various Wrexham Lager beers. Described by ex-Wales international Robbie Savage as “one of Wrexham Football Club’s most famous fans”, the Daily Star newspaper called him a “social media giant”.
Great Deal 
New Comment