Snow fails to cool interest in Beamish Hall’s Winter Beer Festival (VIDEO and GALLERY)

FESTIVAL-goers battled through hail & snow for two days of live music, real ale, real cider, hog roasts and home-made broth at Beamish Hall.

The event, now in its second year and set to become an annual fixture on the hotel’s calendar, was held indoors due to the heavy snow that had fallen across the region. But the weather could not stop the 1,500 ticket holders from turning up for a sell-out Saturday.

With over 70 real ales, 25 ciders, mulled wine  and various food offerings available, there was something for everyone. For those with a less experienced palette, the bar staff were all providing recommendations and tasters to help customers decide, while for designated drivers, the bars were offering a range of soft drinks.

Entertainment came in the form of nine local bands, headlined by The Happy Cats on Friday and Russ Tippins Electric Band on Saturday, who each played a set in The Winter Gardens.