ALTON’S Winter Beer Festival upheld tradition, attracting more than 1,400 punters to Alton College and proving that the event remains in safe hands.

After running 25 hugely successful festivals in Alton, founders and organisers Peter and Ysanne Legg stood down last summer to hand over the reins to a team of five trustees – Andy Rickards, Louise Parker, Frank Norris, Lisa Hillan, and Nigel Hoppitt.

The Leggs will have been proud of their legacy, with more than 4,800 pints of beer and cider served over three sessions and festivalgoers able to enjoy nearly a whole alphabet of liquid refreshments from Banks and Taylor through to Yeovil Ales, served along ‘Beer Alley’ and at ‘The Leggs’ Inn.

In the separate Cider Bar, people were able to taste a range of ciders from single variety to fruity to beetroot or even toffee flavour.

The Naked Grape in Four Marks also provided a selection of white wines, for those who didn’t want to partake of a pint.

On the food front, Four Marks Scouts offered burgers and hot dogs to raise money toward their new Scout hut, while Abdul from Alton Balti served some special curries.

There was a different vibe each session with music on Friday night courtesy of ska band Key Lime Pi, while Saturday lunchtime featured Celtic rock band Black Sheep, handing over in the evening to Sammy Rat and The Resonators, who got everyone singing and dancing, including those behind the bar.

Designed to support a range of charities, while the money is still being counted, thanks have been expressed to the host of volunteers who gave their time and energy to help promote and run the event.

This year, the in-house team wore festival polo shirts sponsored by Bourne Estate Agents.

Thanks go also to the breweries and cider makers who support the festival, in particular founding brewery sponsor Triple fff.

Alton Summer Beer Festival returns to Alton College on June 3-4.