ALTON’S winter beer festival drew around 1,300 ale fans to Alton College on to sample more than 100 of the UK’s finest brews. 

A regular fixture in the Alton events calendar, ciders and wines were also on off to people who travelled from far and wide from February 24-25.

Singled out for special promotion was The Darkside, a huge range of dark beers, including some specially brewed for the festival.

In the separate cider bar, drinkers were able to taste a range of ciders from ‘squidgers’ in the area. And there were white wines for those who wanted less volume.

There really was also something for everyone on the food front. Four Marks and Ropley Scouts flipped burgers and cooked hot dogs to raise money for their new Scout hut, while Atul Patel from Four Marks’ Golf Club served special curries and Indian snacks, and Kate’s Lite Bites offered pork scratchings, nuts and crisps for anyone suffering from the munchies.

Each of the three sessions had its own musical vibe. On Friday night, Key Lime Pi rocked the event; Electric Eden were welcomed for the first time on Saturday lunchtime; while on Saturday evening the Rockin Crescendos got everyone singing and dancing – including those brave souls serving behind the bar!

Expressing thanks to all those who supported the event, organising committee spokesperson, Louise Parker said: “The festival would not be able to run without the volunteers who give their time and energy to help set-up, serve and clear up.

“In addition, there were the countless people, organisations and pubs who helped in the run-up to the festival with ticket sales, display of banners and posters, et cetera.”

For both 2017 festivals, the volunteers will be sporting festival polo shirts kindly sponsored by Bourne Estate Agents.

Thanks also went to the breweries and cider makers that supported the festival – in particular founding brewery sponsor Triple fff, from Four Marks.

Ms Parker added: “The beer festival is truly an event run by local people for the benefit of local people!”

Alton’s summer beer festival will take place on June 2-3, and there will be an inaugural Oktoberfest on October 28.

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