With real ale, real community spirit and really good causes, Wanstead Beer Festival returns this October with more brews, new names and a fundraising mission. Paul Donovan reports
The third Wanstead Beer Festival is set to return on 4 October. Bigger and better than ever, there will be more beers and ciders this time, topping the 50 mark. Gin, wine, prosecco and a selection of soft drinks will also be on offer. Our hosts, Christ Church, will again be offering their superb burgers and hot dogs.
Among the beers to look out for are Milestone Brewery’s Cromwell Best, a deep, slightly malty bitter. Then, there is the lighter East London Brewing Company favourite, the award-winning Cowcatcher. The always popular, champion-winning beer Captain Bob from The Mighty Oak Brewing Company will again be available. And those who like a dark beer can’t go far wrong with Brentwood Brewing Company’s stout Walrus of Love. Harvey’s Brewery’s Sussex Best will be on tap.
Among the ciders, there will be a good selection from Somerset-based Farmer Jim. Get in early for the tasty Rhubarb Bob.
The Wanstead Beer Festival is once again seeking to blend the local with national in the selection of beers. Among local breweries contributing are Brentwood, East London, Redemption, Neckstamper, Pillars, Pressure Drop, Mighty Oak and Pretty Decent. These are tough times for the hospitality sector, with pubs and breweries under pressure. Thousands of pubs are closing every year; it is a real case of use them or lose them. So, we all need to do our bit to support the sector.
Sadly, since last year, Walthamstow brewer Beerblefish has stopped trading. They were an early backer of the Wanstead Beer Festival. Whilst Beerblefish will be missed, we have a new brewery to add in Leyton-based Libertalia. It is hoped that among Libertalia’s offering will be the popular new bitter Private Eye.
Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss out. Bought in advance, tickets cost £10, which includes the unique beer festival glass. This year, there is a new twist, with a bit of colour added. Tickets on the door will be £12 and we aim to keep drinks around £5 a pint.
Proceeds from the event are to be split between three charities: the Wren Wildlife Group, Wanstead Community Riding Stables and the Christ Church restoration fund. The funding for the stables will be going towards buying a big horse. “A horse that is safe, strong, kind, well-schooled and suitable for riders with disabilities,” said a member of the fundraising team.
Thanks go to all the local businesses who have sponsored the event and helped make it possible. The Wanstead Beer Festival is a real community effort all round.
The Wanstead Beer Festival will take place in the halls of Christ Church on 4 October from 1pm to 11pm. For more information and tickets, visit wnstd.com/beer
