LAST weekend’s Marthall Beer Festival was an ‘unparalleled success’ as it returned to Knutsford for its third year running.

The festival, which was organised this year to coincide with the June rally of the Caravan Club, taking place in Ollerton, drew in a huge crowd.

The sun was shining as families travelled from miles around to enjoy live music, a bouncy castle, a rodeo ride and of course, plenty of beers and ciders for the adults.

Neil Hanlon, on the organising committee of the Marthall Beer Festival, said: “Our unique recipe for “a beer festival with a twist” gave families a great day out – the hall was filled with parents sampling the amazing range of beers and ciders whilst the children were entertained all day.

“1st Chelford Scouts provided the barbecue with very efficient and courteous service. It was a pleasure to work with them and we’re pleased that they were also able to raise some funds at the festival for their summer expedition.

“The tug of war was a lot of fun – thankfully the wind last week helped dry the lawn so there wasn’t too much mud! The trophy was won this year by the Chelford team, captained by Ben Coxon.”

Guests were also entertained by live music from Sara and Chris Dawson, who performed crowd-pleasing covers of Amy Winehouse and Dolly Parton.

Into the evening, another local band, Buzzard took to the stage to cover classic artists such as Bob Marley, The Jam and Def Leppard.

Neil said: “The beers were great, of course. The festival was a great opportunity for local breweries such as Tatton Ales, Mobberley Fine Ales, Cheshire Brewhouse, Off Beat, Beartown, Happy Valley, Red Willow, Salopian and Wincle to showcase their finest ales.

“We also had cider from Stockport’s Madhatters Cider on sale for the first time, which was very popular with our guests.

“The Marthall Beer Festival is now firmly established and we look forward to continuing this tradition for years to come.

“The organising committee would like to thank all our sponsors and helpers, without whom this festival would not be possible.

“It’s too early to say how much we raised this year but we are expecting a clear profit which will be used to upgrade the kitchen facilities at the hall. Perhaps a new fridge to keep the cider cool at next year’s event!”