Perfect brew for bumper beer festival, says CAMRA

The organisers of a five-day beer festival have said there is "something for everyone" - even those who prefer their drinks alcohol-free.

More than 25,000 people are expected at the 45th Peterborough Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Beer Festival, held in "massive marquees" on The Embankment.

Like last year, CAMRA claims the event - which runs until Saturday - could have the UK's longest continuous beer bar, at more than 91m (328 ft).

Festival organiser Mike Lane said the selection and supply of drinks with no, or low, alcohol content has been "improved" - after they ran out in 2023.

More than 300 volunteers have spent a week setting up the site and erecting the marquees.

This year, an “escape bar” offers snacks and soft drinks and there is a “world-bar” which, as the name suggests, features brews from across the globe.

Mr Lane said the team is “excited” to welcome people back and said there is “a lot to look forward to”.

“It’s the most popular social event of the year for the city and the preparations have gone really well and the weather is looking fantastic.”

Mr Lane said: “We have hundreds of local and national brewers at the venue.

"Some brewers have made special brews just for this festival.

"We also learnt from our mistakes and have improved our supply of alcohol-free drinks to meet the demand - after we ran out last year.

“Events like these are crucial to help businesses and the city.

"It does a massive amount for the city. Lots of suppliers of the industry will come here, probably all the city hotels are all booked.”

The event will raise money for the city-based charity Sue Ryder, which runs Thorpe Hall Hospice.

Last year's total was £11,000. There will be donation buckets across the site.

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