Summer beer fest hots up

The Bobtown Beer Bash is shaping up to emulate the success of last year’s festival that saw hundreds of beer lovers turn up in the village.

Organiser Robert Knapp is promising more choices of beers and cider from across the UK as well as a donation to local good causes.

“To say we were overwhelmed by the demand last year, would be an understatement,” Mr Knapp said.

“We had to send out for more glasses within two hours of opening, and ran dry of beer an hour or more before scheduled closing time.”

This year there will also be a bespoke Roberttown Festival Ale produced by Huddersfield-based Mallinsons brewers.

A variety of beers will be on offer during the event, including rare brews from local producers like Mallinsons.

Mr Knapp said: “We don’t have a particular theme regarding our beers. But we take pride in supplying beers that are not usually available in the area.

“We are also showcasing beers from both new, and established brewers closer to home.”

The festival also boasts the CAMRA supreme champion beer from Nottingham-based Castlerock brewery with their Harvest Gold. There are also beers from Buckinghamshire and Surrey.

As well as liquid refreshments, Buckles’, the village butcher, will provide a barbecue and there are more than eight live bands due to perform.

The proceeds from the 2010 event went to the Roberttown Community Centre, which is a registered charity, and the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Mr Knapp added: “We are a non-profit making organisation so whatever we make goes straight to local charities.

“Providing we have decent weather this year, which we can’t do anything about, I can see no reason why we cannot have another successful day.”

To ensure that revellers are not disappointed, Mr Knapp suggests turning up early to avoid disappointment.

“We work on a first come first served basis, so can’t guarantee any particular beer or cider will be available once the festival has opened,” he added.

l The festival takes place on Saturday July 16 from noon-10pm in the village.