REAL ale fans will have a reason to cheer this weekend as the second Middlewich Beer Festival takes place at the Royal British Legion.

And preparations are brewing nicely, according to members of Middlewich and District Round Table, which has organised the event.

Discerning drinkers are in for a real treat with a total of 42 beers, ales and bitters to sample from a wide selection of breweries, including two local ales - the Thunderwich, brewed at Storm Brewery in Macclesfield and the festival beer Midalewich.

Pints of ale such as Norman's Conquest and Red Eric will be pulled over two days, Friday, October 22 and Saturday, October 23.

The event kicks off at 7pm on Friday and features entertainment from cover band American Pie.

There will be an afternoon supping session from noon to 4pm on Saturday, costing £1, where merry makers can get into the swing of the festival to the sounds of the Middlewich Big Band

And taste buds will be tempted on Saturday night from 7pm, when Middlewich band The Sugar Daddies take to the stage. Round Table spokesman Russel Whitney said: "It's been a lot of hard work organising the event but we're really looking forward to it.

"The legion's Poppy Appeal and local charities are set to benefit from the event and we're hoping to raise more than £2,000 this year."

And Russel has his own personal target to beat, which he is especially looking forward to.

He said: "Last year I managed to try 32 of the beers on offer, so I'm going to see how many I can sample this year."

So if you fancy sampling some fine ales this weekend, head for the Royal British Legion on Booth Lane.

Tickets for the evening sessions are priced £3 and you can get seven half pints for just £5. Food will also be on sale at the three sessions.

To buy tickets ring Rob or Russel Whitney on 01606 834367.

gsproston@guardiangrp.co.uk