Harrogate Beer Festival: charity total may top £30,000

As the large crowds enjoyed the choice of a phenomenal number of fine ales and a wide line-up of live music by local acts, they were also supporting local causes.

Among the charities benefiting were Harrogate Special Care Baby Unit, Follifoot Disabled Riders Group, Marie Curie, Just B and Open Country.

Chairman Dan Sculthorp of organisers Harrogate Round Table said the whole event would not have been possible without the support of not only the breweries and the Crown Hotel but also members themselves and a whole host of volunteers who also gave their time for free.

He said: “The atmosphere was wonderful throughout, just what you would want.

“There was a real mix of age groups and people.

“But none of it would have happened without Round Table members and volunteers before and during what was a brilliant festival this year. We are genuinely appreciative.”

The three-day extravaganza at the Crown Hotel was the 26th year the beer festival has been held.

Everyone agreed chief organiser Andy Rickard had done a great job, despite a lone grumble the Harrogate Advertiser Series received online about the ticket price.

At a total of 188 beers, the Round Table offered beer lovers their biggest choice yet.

Dan Sculthorp said: “Putting on so many beers was a bit of a leap but we like to keep the event fresh. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.”

Local breweries represented included Daleside of Starbeck and BadCo Brewery of Dishforth.

The live music took place on two stages in two different rooms in the Crown Hotel - the Bronte Suite and the Victoria Suite.

Among the acts were BBC’s The Voice star Beth McCarthy, The Detours, The MG band, Kasiuss, Gary Stewart, The Sharlon Colgan Band, Rebel Sounds and The Blueflies.

And for anyone who preferred a more ‘chilled’ scene, organisers offered a dedicated prosecco bar with light music by DJ Mark Green.

Rugby union fans were treated to two big screens this year to ensure they didn’t miss the Six Nations clash between England and Scotland.

Also making an appearance to entertain the crowds were the Claro Sword and Morris Dancers.

Harrogate Round Table has yet to calculate the funds raised for charity but hopes are high the total will be in excess of £30,000.

Among the events’ sponsors were Daleside, Raworths, FTAV, Theakstons and Pickard Event Services.