Standard Class 4 76017 waits at Tenterden

With the 6.30pm evening beer festival special to Bodiam.

A day that improved measurably from an atrocious morning where heavy rain blasted us after a clear sunny start.

It nearly spoilt the day as we were planning to go to Tenterden for a walk and to visit the KESR/Camera Beer Festival at Tenterden Town. Something I’ve been looking forward to as for one thing and another we’ve missed the last 11 years.

In the end it worked out fine. Hot chocolate might have been more appropriate on the day! At least the rain held off although the breeze was stiff and chilling.

I had 5 halves of the 50 brews on offer. I started with Swanney Brewery Dark Munro from Orkney - a 4.0% dark ruby ale. That was followed by Left Handed Giant from St Phillips Brewery in Bristol - a 3.4% golden mild

(I couldn’t miss this one as I’m left handed and at 6’4” a small giant and my name is Philip)

That was followed by Romney Marsh Brewery’s Marsh Sunset a 4.0% ruby ale. Then Tonbridge Brewery’s Velvet Raven, a 5.2% dark ale with notes of toffee, liquorice, chocolate and coffee.

A break was called for so went went to the Woolpack Inn in the town for a very enjoyable meal.

It was back to the station for one final brew; the Stag Brewery from Woodchurch in Kent and their Red Imperial, a 4.8% dark bitter with banana and toffee notes.

Susan being the designated driver had sips of each and a small glass of Kentish Hush Heath rose with her dinner.

The souvenir beer glass celebrated the KESR’s 50 anniversary. Another glass for the collection.

The extra in my Left Handed Giant from St Phillip’s Brewery being poured.