It’s become something of a staple in the beer-lovers’ diet.

The annual CAMRA East Malling Beer and Cider Festival brings fans from far and wide to East Malling Research each year.

It made its return to East Malling in 2010 after a three year drought.

This year’s festival on Saturday, September 3 at the horticultural research station has again been organised by volunteer members of the Maidstone and Mid-Kent Branch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, and will see more than 75 real ales lining up to be tried, with a focus on LocAle brews – CAMRA’s scheme that promotes pubs selling locally-brewed real ale – as well as at least 25 local ciders and perries.

Chairman Ian Clennett said: “East Malling Research is the perfect backdrop for what has become a regular fixture for fans of real ale and cider. Each year, our organising team works hard to make the next event even bigger and better and we look forward to a bumper attendance and great weather.”

Organiser Jeff Tucker said: “We can promise our visitors an excellent selection of real ales and ciders, especially from local breweries and producers. Our free shuttle buses prove extremely popular and we look forward to welcoming festival regulars as well as event newcomers.”

As well as something to quench your thirst, the festival also has live music from local bands and entertainment for all the family, plus plenty of food stalls.

DETAILS

Admission on Saturday, September 3 is between 11am and 7pm and costs £5, with free admission for card-carrying CAMRA members.

There will be a free festival shuttle bus service every 30 minutes from 10.29 at Aylesford Station and at 10.35 from West Malling Station.