PRESS RELEASE 31^st October 2006

2^nd Redhill Beer Festival

 The Redhill Beer Festival would like to thank all those who contributed to the success of this year’s event which was held in Merstham Village Hall on 26^th, 27^th & 28th October. We would also like to apologise to all those who turned up on Saturday evening to find that the festival, as last year, had been forced to close early, due to the fact that all the beer had been sold. This occurred despite having increased the number of casks from 40 to 52 this year, (30% more than in 2005)! Demand on Friday was such that by early evening the hall was full and we were obliged to make new customers queue until earlier arrivals left. Fortunately, that situation only lasted for a couple of hours and was accepted with good grace by those obliged to wait. Comments included,

“Very Good.”, “Great festival. Well done. It can only get better!”, “Great all round!!”, “Superb team, lovely customers!”

 “MORE” was the main thrust of the suggestions made – more seating, more ciders and perries, more mild, making hot food available, etc. We will study all the suggestions made to us and think hard about what we can do to improve things for next year. Since the entire festival is organised and staffed by volunteers the best way for people to ensure that their suggestions are given full consideration is to join the organising team.

Contact Keith Jackson on 01306 889466, e-mail eams@camrasurrey.org.uk or visit the branch section of the CAMRA Surrey branches website at www.camrasurrey.org.uk.

After a careful count of votes for Beer of the Festival, the winner was Westerham Brewery’s General Wolfe Maple Ale with second place going to Hardys & Hansons Kimberley Mild. The Perry/Cider of the Festival was won by Mr Whitehead’s Midnight Special Perry.

Press enquiries to kitpkm@ntlworld.com or ring Kit Packham on 01883 370737.
Press Release for Immediate Use from 31 October 2006

General enquiries to redhillbf@camrasurrey.org.uk or ring Clive on 01737 778711.

Photo: Hannah Pettifer - Redhill Beer Festival on Friday. More photos can be seen at www.myphotogallery.org.uk/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.ShowItem&g2_itemId=5384)