Countdown to 8th St Austell Celtic Beer Festival

l St Austell managing director James Staughton (left) and director of brewing Roger Ryman serve at the 2006 festival

November 6, 2007: It takes place out of season, for one day only, in a busy venue with a restricted capacity. And yet St Austell Brewery's annual Celtic Beer Festival, on December 1 this year, remains one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the West Country ale lover's calendar.

The unique surroundings of the old wine cellars and vaults beneath the Victorian brewery in St Austell will play host to hundreds of revellers, a fantastic line-up of five live bands and, of course, a selection of more than 120 great beers.

As well as beers from breweries around the country, St Austell Brewery's award-winning brewing team have been busy creating a selection of unique beers to wow festival visitors. More than a dozen special treats will line up alongside St Austell's favourites, such as Tribute, Tinners, Proper Job IPA and HSD.

Roger Ryman, director of brewing said: "The Celtic Beer Festival is always a fabulous event and a great chance to catch up with old friends, enjoy great music and, of course, sample the fantastic range of beers on offer.

"For our part it is also a fantastic opportunity to try out some exciting new brews, show off our great range of award-winning ales and get the satisfaction from seeing people enjoying our work."

Delicious food prepared using fresh Cornish produce will be provided by St Austell Brewery's catering development team and chefs from the brewery's pubs.

Last year more than 3,000 people visited the brewery to party throughout the day and evening. The Celtic Beer Festival is organised and staffed by volunteers from the brewery, together with suppliers. All money raised during the course of the day is donated to local charities in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset through the St Austell Brewery charitable Trust. Last year the festival raised more than £8,000 for charity, setting a new record.

l The St Austell Brewery Celtic Beer Festival takes place on Saturday December 1 from 11am to 11pm in the vaults below St Austell Brewery. Tickets are £5 per person, to include a free commemorative glass and programme.

There will be music throughout the day, from folk-rock, blues and soul to pop.