GLASSES are likely to be more than half empty when real ale lovers descend on Stratford Beer and Cider Festival.
The ninth annual festival takes place at Stratford Racecourse on Friday and Saturday (June 12 and 13) – serving until 11pm.
Organised by Shakespeare branch of the Campaign for Real Ale, this year’s event will be the biggest yet featuring 70 real ales as well as a selection of ciders and perries.
The event will be officially opened on Friday evening by mayor Tess Bates after which a judging panel will select the champion bitter of the West Midlands from six finalists.
The theme for the event is ‘War of the Roses’ with around half of the ales coming from Yorkshire and Lancashire.
And as well as offering visitors ales from regional and national breweries, the festival will also give visitors the chance to try locally brewed beers from Shipston, Alcester and the north Cotwolds.
As in past years, festival organisers are hoping to raise money for the nearby Shakespeare Hospice, which will have a stand at the event.
Food and a CAMRA membership stand will also be available along with camping facilities for those who wish to stay overnight.
Organiser Julian Stobinski said: “This is a wonderful event held in great surroundings with a great choice of beers, ciders and perries you would not normally see in the Stratford area so we look forward to welcoming people there.”
Visit www.stratfordbeerfestival.org.uk for more information.
