The 2015 Hitchin Beer and Cider Festival turned out to be a gigantic glugfest as more than 2,700 punters piled through the gates over three days, with thirsty drinkers supping every drop of draught beer by Saturday afternoon.
The annual festival was held at the King George V playing fields home of Hitchin Rugby Club for the third successive year.
Festival organiser Jon Kirby said: “It was a huge success. We ran out of beer due to the demand by late Saturday afternoon so people had to move on to cider and perry – and they eventually sold out, too.
“It was such a fantastic atmosphere over the three days which helped to make a fantastic event.
“We sold 7,000 pints of beer in less than three days – and our total number of visitors was up nearly 10 per cent from last year.
“We just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who gave up their time to volunteer, everyone who came along to enjoy the event, and of course our sponsors including the Comet for supporting it.”
Burning Sky Brewery won the festival’s best beer with their pale gold Plateau, while Baldock cider and perry makers Apple Cottage, based in Pinnocks Lane, scooped the top two cider and perry awards.
Gayle Edwards, who co-owns the brewery with her husband Paul said: “We won the best cider with our KT, and came second with FTJ. Our perry also came first and second in their category – with Perry Coma winning, and Fred Perry runner-up.
“We’re absolutely delighted our cider and perry is going from strength-to-strength.”
Beer enthusiast Mark Waples was among the crowds. He said: “It was a great beer festival with great beers – well done to everyone!”
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