BEER lovers flocked from across the North West to sample the wares at the ever-popular Broughton Beer Festival.

There were more than 90 real ales and perries on offer across the weekend which kicked off on Thursday.

The Old Kings Head in Broughton actually sold all its beer and had to start selling this week’s stock early.

John Jardine, who has just taken over the The Old Kings Head, said he had loved every minute.

He has been going to the festival since he was legally able to drink but it was his first time running a pub during the event.

He said: “It was absolutely fantastic. Really, really good and well attended. We had 12 ales on offer and we actually ended up with none left and had to use what we were going to put on for the coming week.”

Other pubs involved in the event included the Manor Arms, the Black Cock Inn, the High Cross, the Prince of Wales at Foxfield and the Travellers Alms in Ulpha, which also put on musical entertainment for the crowds to enjoy.

The event has proved a success for more than 15 years, and this year’s gathering of real ale lovers pulled in people from all over.

Landlord and event organiser, Scott Varty, whose family have owned the Manor Arms in Broughton for more than 27 years, said a bus of real ale buffs had even travelled from as far away as Stockport.

He said the event was as busy as ever but slowed down a bit on Saturday night which he put down to the England versus Australia rugby clash on TV.

Mr Varty said they had had 35 different ales available in the pub and at their outside bar in the village square. They also provided food to soak up the ale.

He said: “It was really, really busy and a great atmosphere. Some of the bus drivers said they thought it was a bit quieter but we didn’t notice any difference.

“Saturday was a bit quieter but that was probably down to the rugby. We had a good selection of ales on offer and people really seemed to enjoy themselves.”