Thirsty fundraisers collected hundreds of pounds for charity after enjoying their annual beer festival.
The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust held their Winter Ales, Cider & Sausage Festival in Melksham Assembly Hall on Saturday November 2nd.
Despite the poor weather and the distraction of the Rugby World Cup final earlier in the day, more than 100 people attended the fun event where they were able to enjoy 10 real ales, four traditional ciders and a range of sausages from local producers, including vegan options.
Visitors drank around 280 pints and ate around 180 sausages, and helped to raise more than £350.
This was the fifth year of the event, which was organised by the Melksham, Chippenham & Calne branch of the charity.
Spokesperson Alan Lank said, “We were really pleased with the attendance, with lots of positive comments on the quality of the food and drink. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.
“We also provided several displays featuring updates on our local restoration campaign, which generated lots of interest – several people went away with membership leaflets, so hopefully we’ll soon be welcoming even more supporters.”
Profits support the ongoing restoration of the former waterway from the Kennet & Avon Canal near Semington to the Thames & Severn Canal near Cricklade and the River Thames near Abingdon, connecting Melksham, Chippenham, Calne, Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.
The charity hopes the restoration will provide a multi-million pound boost to the local economy through increased tourism and employment, as well as providing a new wildlife corridor.
A significant stretch of the canal and towpath has already been restored near Lacock, with tripboats arranged throughout the summer.
For further information on joining the local branch, visit www.wbct.org.uk
Pictured: Canal Trust volunteers Alan Lank and Lucia Evans at the Melksham beer festival.
Photo by Howard Wilson.
