Stone Life Apr/May 2014 | Page 28

LYMESTONE BREWERY First ever beer festival bre he owners of a local brewery which hosted its first ever beer festival recently have been bowled over by the response the event had. Brad and Viv Bradford of Lymestone Brewery in Stone put on their first ever Beer Festival which took place on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th March. Featuring over 20 real ales and 20 ciders and perries on tap over the weekend, many from fellow local breweries, the event was a massive success. Speaking to Stone and Eccleshall Life Viv said it may have been Lymstone’s first beer festival but it was most certainly not its last. The event was so well received that the couple already have plans in the pipeline for a second event later in the year in September. Viv commented: “The entire weekend was absolutely fantastic with everyone who came along having a brilliant time. We had a really good turnout on both the Friday night and then again on the Saturday when we opened up in the afternoon to make it easier for people to come along on public transport or by train as well as people and families who walked up from the town to see us. “There was a really nice crowd in and everyone who came along throughly enjoyed themselves. Both Brad and I love our live music as well as real ale so it was an excellent opportunity to combine the two with live music on Saturday evening provided by the wonderful Elvis Fontenot and the Sugar Bees. T 28 April/May 2014 “There was an excellent selection of 22 beers, ciders and perries available and after the festival we had very little of anything left so must have judged it right.” Following the success of the local brewery’s first beer festival event real ale fans will want to keep their eyes peeled for details of the next event planned for September. Viv did however hint at the possibility of a German theme and an Oompah band providing the entertainment. Also at the brewery Grindeys Community has teamed up with the team at Lymestone to organise a tour for beer lovers who can not only get a taste of their favourite tipples but support the very worthy Douglas Macmillan Hospice at the same time. The Stone-based brewery is hosting a tour on Friday 4th April at 7.30pm, lasting approximately two to three hours, with a percentage of the £15 admission fee going to the Hospice. During the tour, pint hungry participants will learn all about the brewing and have the opportunity to taste a wide range of beers. Liz Clarke, Head of Fundraising said: “We would like to thank Grindeys Community and Lymestone Brewery for their support and hope the brewery tour is a big success. “All the monies coming to the Hospice will help us continue to care for local people of the North Staffordshire region facing life limiting illnesses.” Places for the brewery tour are limited to 40 so book now to avoid disappointment by contacting Julie Draper on 01782 840552. Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended.