ALE lovers raised a glass at an historic fort for the return of an annual beer festival.

Thousands of pints were pulled for visitors at this year’s Redoubt Beer Festival.

More than 50 real ales and 20 ciders were on offer at the fort which was originally built in 1808 to defend Harwich from a possible Napoleonic invasion.

The festival was run by the Harwich Brewing company which served 3,000 pints of ale, 750 pints of cider, 400 pints of fruit beer and 200 pints of craft keg beer during the event.

For residents who fancied other alcoholic beverages, there was also a selection of red wine, white wine and Prosecco to drink throughout the festival.

Paul Mellor, owner of Harwich Brewing Company said: “The festival was amazing on Thursday and the weather was so good. Friday night was a bit of a wash out as we couldn’t see the eclipse, but people cheered when it started raining.”

He said cider was running pretty low.

There was also a range of food stands to keep visitors’ stomachs full. A host of entertainment was provided by musicians.

Paul added: “About 1,000 people came and it will be held on the same week next year.”