A couple with a name as fitting as their tradition - Peter and Suzie Brewer - were among the first through the doors at this year’s Farnham Beerex, continuing a near half-century love affair with the local beer festival.
The Brewers, who hail from Farnham, have been attending the annual event almost every year since its inception 47 years ago.
Even when they briefly moved away from the town, Suzie made sure the tradition lived on — enlisting friends and family to pick up the commemorative festival glass in their place.
“We’ve been coming every year we can since the first Beerex,” said Peter. “It’s a fantastic event — my favourite beer is the Hogs Back Brewery Tongham Tea, but there are so many great options, everyone will have a different favourite.”
The event started on Thursday (April 11) evening. This year, Farnham Beerex returns to its historic home at the Farnham Maltings, a fitting venue with deep roots in the town’s brewing heritage and community life.
Now a beloved fixture on the local calendar, the festival kicked off with energy and enthusiasm as volunteers and brewers prepared for a lively weekend ahead.
With tickets for the Friday and Saturday sessions selling fast and sunshine in the forecast, organisers are anticipating a strong turnout.
Preparations began early in the week, with volunteers rolling up their sleeves on Monday to lift and position barrels on the scaffolding, allowing the beer and ale to settle properly ahead of the weekend crowds.
Farnham town mayor, Councillor Brodie Mauluka, helped launch the event and was among the first to sample The Blind Bishop– a new brew from the recently established Farnham Brewing Co.
Cllr Mauluka said: “It is great to see people come together and enjoy beer brewed locally and from other parts of the UK. I have seen people here who I have not spoken to in a long time.
“I was chatting to somebody from Norfolk earlier who said they have come down just to enjoy Farnham Beerex. This is really special and it can’t be done without the volunteers who sacrifice their time and effort to put on a great event.”
Chairman of Farnham Beerex Peter Williams said “I can’t reveal which beer is my favourite as I have not tried them all and we have added so many this year. We can’t wait for this weekend tickets are selling really well and the sunny weather should attract more”
The event could not have been put on without the work of the volunteers who help set up, pour and entertain guests by leading them through the different beers.
For more information visit: www.farnhambeerex.org.uk/index.html