ALTON’S Winter Beer Festival attracted folk from across the South East to Alton College last weekend to enjoy one of the most popular events in the town’s calendar.

More than 1,100 people attended over the three sessions, which were held on Friday and Saturday, with volunteers serving more than 80 different beers, ciders, or wines.

Building on last winter’s introduction to the DarksidE, there were 20 different dark beers, including some specially brewed for the festival.

Beer festival trustee Louise Parker, not normally a dark beer drinker, said she was really surprised that she enjoyed the opportunity to try something she wouldn’t normally have drunk – and this was echoed by many of the punters, who welcomed the new brewers.

In addition, there was the chance for punters to compare the cask and keg versions of the same beer, a unique opportunity which proved popular.

In the separate Cider Bar, people could sample a range of ciders, all from local ‘squidgers’ or local white wines, for those who didn’t want to partake of a few pints.

Mrs Parker said there was also something for everyone on the food front at the festival.

Four Marks and Ropley Scouts continued to flip burgers and cook hotdogs to raise money toward their new Scout hut, while those people wanting something a little spicier headed for Sir & Madam’s Thai curries. Kate’s Lite Bites were also a success, offering pork scratchings, nuts and crisps for those wanting something to nibble while drinking.

There was a range of entertainment over the two days, with a mix of local bands, magicians and even a ‘balloonologist’.

On Friday night, Hampshire band Key Lime Pi opened the festival; Saturday lunchtime saw a trio of local groups entertain the crowds – Call Me Ishmael, 3pSuite, and Electric Eden; while Saturday evening saw the return of Beat Route getting everyone singing and dancing.

Mrs Parker continued: “The festival would not be able to run without the volunteers who give their time and energy to help set up, serve and clear down. In addition, there are the countless people, organisations and local pubs who help in the run up to the festival with ticket sales, display of banners and posters.

“For both 2018 festivals, the volunteers will be sporting festival polo shirts that have been kindly sponsored by Bourne Estate Agents.”

Mrs Parker expressed thanks also to the breweries and cider makers who support the festival, in particular founding brewery sponsor Triple fff from Four Marks.

“The Alton Beer Festival is truly an event run by local people for the benefit of local people,” she said.

Alton Summer Beer Festival is scheduled to take place on Friday and Saturday, June 1-2, with Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 20.

For more details, including how to buy tickets, visit altonbeerfestival.org.uk.