THOUSANDS of thirsty punters raised their glasses to raise money for a male cancer charity last weekend.
More than 3,500 people visited Twyford Beer Festival, held at Stanlake Meadow Recreation Ground on Friday, June 10 and Saturday, June 11.
Festival organiser Ian Wisdom led a team of more than 75 volunteers to run the event, the twelfth he has held in aid of Orchid.
“Last year’s amount raised was £12,000 and I am hopeful that we will do better than that this year,” Mr Wisdom said.
“Lots of people come back every year and tell us that it is their favourite beer festival, because they enjoy the atmosphere.
“We sold more than 900 servings of Pimm’s, 200 bottles of wine and Prosecco, and 199 barrels of beer – or 17,192 pints – over the two days.”
Visitors soaked up the sun whilst sampling ales and ciders from breweries including Bond Brews, Elusive, Phantom, Stardust and Tutts Clump. Food was provided by award winning Twyford businesses, Haweli and Rural Pie Co, while bands The PFJ, Big Audio Twynamite, Bottle Kids and Dacoda kept the crowds entertained.
Rob Cornes, a male cancer nurse specialist, led a team from Orchid at the festival.
“Men aren’t very good at talking about their health which is why this event is so important to us,” he said.
“It helps to get those conversations started.
“We spoke with some 30 people, including men who hadn’t been able to find the courage to speak about their concerns or symptoms until they came to us.
“And one man came to thank us for the support Orchid had given to his family following his father’s diagnosis of penile cancer five years ago.”
The full amount raised will be announced at a later date.
Twyford Beer Festival 2023 will be held on Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10.
For more information on male cancers, visit: https://orchid-cancer.org.uk/
