Beer festival cheers fundraisers

A HARD-WORKING duo toasted their success after raising almost £1,000 at a two-day charity fundraising Saddleworth Beer Festival.

(Picture by Carl Taylor)
(Picture by Carl Taylor)

Peter Archer and Jon Frankell, with the support of Uppermill Conservative Club and dedicated helpers, gave drinkers the choice of more than are 30 ales, lagers and ciders from across the country.

Guests at the festival at Uppermill Civic Hall voted Saddleworth Bullet – brewed as a tribute to the Saddleworth Morris Men – and Greenfield Real Ale Brewery’s Vanilla Stout among their favourites.

Jon explained: “The bullet is given to a Morris Man as a forfeit for making a mistake or performing a dance which is not up to par.

“It’s a quirky way of marking their dancing achievements linked to the wonderful work and a celebration of their 40th anniversary.”

(Picture by Carl Taylor)
(Picture by Carl Taylor)

The other most popular drinks included Jaipur, Salopian Lemon Dream, Kipling, Magic Spanner and Butterly, which were all quick to sell out.

Live bands, including Naughty Dog, blues band the Billy Coxon Seven and Friezland Brass Band,provided entertainment throughout the two-day event.

Peter added: “Friday night was very busy and it was absolutely packed out. Saturday was bit quieter and we didn’t get the rush we expected but it was still a success.

“It was a shame it was the only weekend we could book as we were fighting against other events, like Party in the Park and Village Olympics, which a lot of locals went to.

“We’ve raised approaching £1,000 and that’s a great amount we didn’t think we would get.”

The annual festival moved to the Civic Hall last year after outgrowing its previous base at the Uppermill Conservative Club, where it was held for two years.

Proceeds raised will go towards club community projects, the Royal British Legion and Saddleworth Parish Council Chairman’s chosen charity, Dr Kershaws.

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