IN true Bavarian style, the second Alton Oktoberfest at Eggar’s School was a fun evening of eating, dancing, singing and beer drinking, according to the organiser.

Having lived in Germany, organiser Louise Parker created the authentic atmosphere of a beer keller in the school hall, in line with similar festivals being held all over Germany this month.

With the Beirfass Band playing traditional oompah music and guests joining in the drinking songs, all sung in German, and dancing while traditional stein mugs were being clicked, it is no wonder the event attracted a bigger crowd than last year as its reputation grows.

Many dressed in Bavarian costumes and guests were served at tables for supper, and there was also a food court where they could shop for German specialities and choose from a variety of sausages.

While serious beer aficionados made sure they sampled all the specialist beers, including a German-style brew by Triple fff Brewery at Four Marks, others paced themselves. German wine was also on offer.

The singing and dancing went on until late in the evening with the guests showing they could compete with their German cousins when it comes to celebrating beer.

The event is run by the ABS Trust and the money raised from the Oktoberfest and Alton’s summer and winter beer festivals is donated to local charities.