Lions hail Newquay Beer Festival a success!

Sep 23, 2013

Some of the organisers and volunteers raise a glass, and say thank-you

Some of the organisers and volunteers raise a glass, and say thank-you

Organisers of the first-ever Newquay Beer Festival, have hailed it a huge success.

The event, organised  by Newquay Towan Blystra Lions has raised a substantial amount of cash for it’s four nominated local charities; Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, Cornwall Hospice Care, Carly Taylor Fighting Back, and Children’s Hospice South West. The final amount is currently being calculated.

Based at Newquay’s Hendra Holiday Park, the Festival took place between 11am – 11pm on both Friday and Saturday nights, as well as a “Last Hurrah” session on Sunday afternoon. Thousands of pints of real ale, larger and cider were sold, and with over 60 beers on offer, the beer connoisseurs were certainly spoilt for choice.

Entertainment was provided by loads of great local acts, including Strawdogs, Route 66, The Freedon/Guilt Equation, Alan Thain, Porky Morcom, The Prevention, Robyn Keen, St Newlyn East Band, Lawrey, Oll An Gwella and The Mix.

The event was run by members of Newquay Towan Blystra Lions, and the bars were manned by volunteers from Lions clubs across Cornwall, as well as other people from the local community. It was also supported by lots of local businesses, including the main sponsors St Austell Brewery and The Maharajah Indian Restaurant.

Extra cash was also raised, after a cake baked by Fresh Restaurant in Newquay was raffled off.

Matt Bunt from Newquay Towan Blystra Lions said: “It’s been hard work, and with it being our first Beer Festival, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. However, everything seemed to come together as it should, and it was a great weekend.

“There was great feedback from lots of people, who all enjoyed the range of beers and entertainment. The atmosphere was great, with lots of smiling faces and everyone enjoying each other’s company.

“There are so many people we need to thank, all without whom, this event wouldn’t have taken place.” Matt continued.

“Firstly, all my fellow Lions, and all the people that volunteered and worked across the weekend. Also, all our generous sponsors, and Hendra Holiday Park for being so supportive and allowing us to host our event there.

“Also, we must say thank-you to all the fantastic bands and acts for playing over the weekend – all of which, provided their services for free, so we could raise as much cash as possible.

“And finally, thank-you to everyone that came and supported the Festival. We hope they had a great time.”