Scarth Hall gears up for sixth Staindrop Beer and Music Festival

FIFTEEN real ales, a host of ciders and ten class acts make up Staindrop’s annual Beer and Music Festival this year.

Now in its sixth year, the festival has a growing following with the village’s Scarth Memorial Hall packed out last year.

This year should be no different with an impressive line up of a diverse range of musicians. It kicks off at 7pm on Friday, September 29.

Hall chairman Morris Race said: “We have a good line up on Friday night. There are the Rock Roses, Loose Like a Goose and Los Capitanes, who are getting a good name around here.”

An interesting addition to the following day’s programme, which starts at noon, is a talk about the history of real ale by local journalist Mike Amos, followed by a performance from as many as 40 members of the Darlington and Stockton Ukelele Express. Boldron musician Kirsty McLachalan performs next before talented young band Upset Beat take to the stage.

Mr Race said: “The guitarist is little for his age, but he can make the guitar sing.”

Chester-le-Street outfit Kitchy Retro, who have already made a name in Teesdale through their performance during Barnard Castle’s Barney Jam, follow ahead of the final act for the night, the much talented Dan Kilford’s Vaudeville.

Mr Race said: “Last year he did the early evening, but he justifies being the headline act.”

A major attraction is the range of beer on offer.

As in previous years Aldbrough St John brewery Mithrel Ales’s specially brewed Scarth Ale will be available alongside Festive Ale, a beer made specifically for the Beer and Music Festival.

Newly established McColl’s Brewery, from Evenwood, will have its three beers on tap while Yorkshire Dales Brewery’s Ashrigg Ale, Mucker Silver and Butter Tubs beers will be available.

Rounding off the 15 beers starring at the festival is Three Brother’s Brewery which will have its Under The Thumb and Ex-Wife ales available alongside a traditional German Beer. Cider lovers can choose from a wide range of offerings such as Lilley’s Cider from Somerset including flavours like strawberry, mango and rhubarb.

Mr Race thanked Ryan Stones owner of Ferkin Alley, in Barnard Castle, who helped find new beers for the festival

Mr Race added: “He gave us some names which are out of the ordinary and a bit special.”