By IW Observer.co.uk
The Havenstreet Real Ale Festival last weekend attracted fans of steam trains as usual, but they were also joined by lovers of great beer.
A huge range of beers justified their own menu, with a side order of ciders for those with a slightly sweeter tooth.
Island beer aficionados quaffed offerings from Yates, Goddards and Island Brewery and there was plenty of choice for those who wanted to try something different, with ales from Somerset, Yorkshire, Norfolk and elsewhere.
Evocative names, such as Gurt Coconuts Rum Stout (at 6.7 per cent not for the faint hearted), rubbed shoulders with delights such as Dancing Dragonfly and Cornish brew, Betty Stoggs.
On Sunday the crowds were entertained to some top tunes from Risky Business with a mix of lively modern and classic rock, while on Bank Holiday Monday drinkers chilled to Rhythm and Blues from the Knucklehead Band.
Beer and steam is a winning combination – next available at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway on July 16, with the welcome return of the Real Ale Train. Let the train take you to the ale, with stops at Wootton, Havenstreet and Ashey stations where you will be able to enjoy a glass (or two).
Press Release