Drinks festival raises funds for local charity

The successful Blackburn Beer & Gin Festival returned over the bank holiday weekend at Blackburn Rugby Club.

The three-day event opened with a bang as more than 100 businesses attended a hugely successful exclusive sponsor event on Friday afternoon.

Individuals had the opportunity to network with some of the biggest businesses in East Lancashire whilst sampling the finest beers and gins.

The festival showcased a lineup of 60 ales sourced by headline sponsor Bowland Brewery, as well as a range of lagers and ciders from some fantastic local producers. Attendees also had the opportunity to try a range of gins sourced from Darwen-based Whitehall Distillery.

Malcolm Ireland, chairman of the Blackburn Beer & Gin Festival, said: "The festival is one of the most successful fundraising events in East Lancashire.  It raises vital funds for a local charity that is close to our hearts, and is a pleasure to be a part of every year."

Action-packed rugby matches entertained the attendees throughout the weekend too, whilst live music featured some great local talent, including George Banks, Miranda Myles and Paul Conner. Guests also had the opportunity to try delicious food from Clayton Park, La Bella Mozzarella and Spicy Jack Deli.

Andrew Graham, founder of Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone, said: "Local businesses power this event, and we are delighted with how many businesses get behind it to raise funds.

"This event is Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone's biggest fundraiser, and we really appreciate the committee of business leaders chaired by Malcolm Ireland dedicating six months of their time to preparing the event, with all profits being donated to Blackburn & Darwen Youth Zone."