A FESTIVAL is set to return after a record number of beer fans turned out to last year's event.

The 17th Manningtree Beer Festival aims to be bigger and better than ever with more than 30 beer barrels and food coming from a new source.

Carol Shakespeare, organiser, said she was excited that the festival has returned on a yearly basis.

She said: “It’s brilliant because all the money we make goes to charity so the more people we have down, the more money we can donate.

“We donated to more than ten charities last year, the festival has a buzzing atmosphere and is family-friendly because we have access to the beach.”

The festival has ordered 34 beer barrels for attendees to enjoy on the day, upping the number from the previous total of 28.

There will also be 24 ciders and a mixture of wine and prosecco.

Reds Tasty Brats, a mobile catering service, will provide sausages and pretzels for the event.

Carol added: “We have five live music acts performing at the festival, Will Foley, Mike Coultharde, Keith Simons, Jack Walsh and new duo Sara and Tom.”

Last year, an estimated 1,100 turned out for the event by the river Stour.

Reflecting on the festival, organiser Peter Shakespeare said: “The atmosphere was fantastic and it was clear people welcomed the return of the festival.

“Last time, the public helped enormously by putting their waste in the bins provided which made the clear-up a lot easier.”

In past years, the festival has raised funds for Manningtree First Responders, Acorn Village, Mistley Kids Club, St Helena Hospice and other charities.

Organisers also plan on donating funds to the crisis in Ukraine.

The Manningtree Beer Festival will take place from Friday, July 22, to Sunday, July 24, at the Sailing Club Marquee in Quay Street.

Entry costs £5 and all drinks cost £3.80 per pint.

For more information visit facebook.com/manningtreebeerfestival/.