Following a positive response to his article earlier this year floating the idea of a Wanstead Beer Festival, Councillor Paul Donovan is now part of the organising committee bringing the event to a head in October
The Wanstead Beer Festival is up and running. Save the date: 14 October in the halls of Christ Church. It is hoped this community-based event will put Wanstead on the beer festival map, as well as raise money for local charities. All are welcome, from novices to seasoned real ale drinkers.
A small group of enthusiasts have come together to form the organising committee, but the more the merrier – if you believe you have something to offer, please get in touch, via the email below.
The Wanstead Beer Festival is set to run from midday into the evening. The aim is to get as wide a range of beers as possible, drawn from local breweries and some more further afield. A keen team of researchers have already taken on the task of sourcing the beers.
Cider enthusiasts are welcome, with some special choices on offer. There will also be lager, and wine and prosecco will be available, too, so hopefully, all tastes will be catered for. And food will be supplied from local sources.
The event is now looking for sponsors, ideally drawn from the local community. It is hoped a special Wanstead Beer Festival glass will be produced, unique for the event. Everyone will get a glass as part of the admission price. A sponsor for the glass would be great.
The event is not for profit, with whatever money made above the operational costs going to a number of local charities.
A real ale aficionado himself, the priest in charge of Wanstead Parish, Reverend James Gilder, is pleased to be a part of the team that is working to bring together the first Wanstead Beer Festival: “I’m really pleased that we are able to host the beer festival in the parish halls. Churches and beer have had a long history, with monks brewing ales for many centuries. Until quite recently, it was usual for a church’s bellringers to keep a cask in the tower, which they often partook of during services! I am sure this event will be a joyous chance to once again see that great Wanstead community spirit coming to the fore, and to spotlight some of our local businesses,” said James.
The response since the idea of a local beer festival was first launched in the February edition of the Wanstead Village Directory has been amazing. Lots of people have come forward and there is a real buzz about the event.
We have a great venue lined up, so now all that remains is to get everything in place for 14 October. No small task, but given the great start, all is looking good so far.
Watch this space.
For more information on the Wanstead Beer Festival, email beer@wnstd.com
