People coming in from far and wide, as soon as the doors opened at 1pm on Saturday, October 14.
Tickets had sold out days before the event, leaving some people disappointed.
Hopefully next year, we’ll get a few more people through the door.
The weather smiled on the day, allowing drinkers to spill out from the main building into the Christchurch gardens.
There was a good choice of drinks with something to suit all tastes. The variety of casks varied from Pride of Prague (for West Ham supporters) – that sold out quickly, to Billericay Dickie.
A nice pale ale, Sussex Hoppy, from Listers brewery was a favourite.
Local brewers did us proud, with three beers from the East London Brewery and some popular varieties from Beerblefish, Redemption, Pretty Decent and Neckstamper.
Brentwood Brewery were superb, providing beers and doing the set up.
Not to forget those brewers from further afiel, such as Mighty Oak from Malden, providing the popular Captain Bob and Gorgeous George beers and Harvey’s Best Bitter from Lewes.
The ciders were also popular, especially Farmer Jim’s, Rhubarb Bob.
Staff and volunteers put in a huge effort to create such a special day. A number commented on the friendly atmosphere.
The organising team got great support from Christchurch.
Local business sponsors also played a major role in making the event possible. So, thanks to all.
The success of the not-for-profit event saw more than £3,000 raised for good causes.
The two nominated charities Tin in a Bin and the Wanstead Charity will soon receive their cheques.
There certainly seems to be a good appetite for a beer festival in Wanstead. This event came together quickly down to a lot of work from a few people.
Hopefully the beer festival can now go on to become a regular local feature of the calendar, alongside the Wanstead Festival and Fringe.
A big thank you to everyone who came along and the team of volunteers who made it all possible.
Onto the next one – see you next year.
Cheers.
- Paul Donovan is Labour councillor for Wanstead Village ward, Redbridge Council and a blogger (paulfdonovan.blogspot.com)
https://www.guardian-series.co.uk/news/23883715.cllr-paul-donovan-enjoyed-wanstead-beer-festival-last-month/
