40 years of beer

This year was the 40th Anniversary of the Peterborough Beer festival, and Alex, Ben , Pete and I decided to go along for only the second time. It was a perfect summer's day, and by arriving early we managed to miss most of the queues. There's a phenomenal range of real ales and craft ciders available, and you can buy thirds of a pint, which gives more chance to try a range of brews. Nevertheless, being a very moderate drinker, I only managed a pint and a half - quite unlike my companions! My favourite beer was called Christopher, and I also enjoyed a rather fine elderflower cider.

The beer festival has a very varied clientele, bringing together all ages and a broad cross-section of Peterborough society. Although some people over-indulge, by and large it's gentle and good humoured - a chance to chat with friends and soak up the last of the late summer sun. And there are local bands to enjoy. We caught the end of All Shook Up, and stayed to watch the whole of Ramshackle Serenade, both of which were very good and got the crowds dancing and singing along.All in all a fine way to celebrate a Bank Holiday.