Tameside Rotary is raising a glass to another successful year after the 13th annual Tameside Beer Festival brought in an estimated £9,000 for charity.
Held at Stalybridge Civic Hall on 19 and 20 September, the festival welcomed 950 visitors, who sampled their way through more than 2,200 pints of draught beer, cider, lager and wine.
The event, run with the support of 56 Rotarians and volunteers, saw a true community spirit at work. Among the helpers were members of Willow Wood Hospice—one of this year’s charity beneficiaries - who rolled up their sleeves behind the bar, on reception and even at the glass-washing stations, keeping the festival flowing smoothly.
Music was at the heart of the celebrations, with 83 artistes across seven local and regional groups performing across the two days. Many reduced or even waived their fees so that more funds could go directly to charity.
Tameside Rotarian Angela Robbins, who organised the line-up, praised their generosity: “The entertainers came in the true spirit of charity and love. They gave generously of their time and talents… they proved they are true friends of Rotary.”
Performers included the Mossley Ukulele Group, St John’s Brass Band (Mossley), Pattison Fogg, High Peak Big Band, Company of Strangers, Tameside Community Voices, and Andy Sproston.
Festival-goers also enjoyed a variety of food to complement their drinks. Curries were provided by Rotarian Kay (Delights of India), pies by Rotarian Manhar and his wife Ramila, and cupcakes by Kirsty of Eclectic Cakes.
The festival also drew some special guests. Jonathan Reynolds MP dropped in to sample the beer he sponsored - one of the festival’s top 10 best-sellers. Meanwhile, the Civic Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Shibley Alam, mingled with festival-goers and thanked volunteers for their efforts.
Rotary Tameside’s President, Mike Glover, said: “We are delighted that the charity beer festival was such a successful event. Now in its 13th year, this event has raised funds for over 30 charities during that time. This year’s event is in support of Willow Wood Hospice and The Christie Hospital Trust amongst others. We’re very grateful to the public who turned out in big numbers to visit us back in our spiritual home of Stalybridge.”
He also extended thanks to local businesses, sponsors and Stalybridge Civic Hall Duty Manager Ryan, who supported the festival throughout. Plans are now being finalised for the distribution of funds, with a presentation to beneficiaries due in the coming weeks.
The Rotary’s next big event will be the annual Santa Float collection, which is already in the planning stages.
To find out more about Tameside Rotary and how you can get involved, visit www.TamesideRotaryClub.com.
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