This year’s East Anglian Beer and Cider Festival, in Bury St Edmunds, gives record amount to 20 charities

The organiser of the 31st East Anglian Beer and Cider Festival said he was delighted to be able to give more money to charities this year – thanks to another record-breaking event.

Martin Bate, from the West Suffolk and Borders Campaign for Real Ale (Camra), hosted the six-day festival at St Edmundsbury Cathedral in Bury St Edmunds, between August 23 and 28, with more than 250 real ales and around 50 ciders.

On Saturday, Martin was able to split £15,500 to 20 charities who helped with the event, from its proceeds.

He said: “It is great to be able to give this record amount to these worthy causes. 6,300 people came through the doors to the festival this year – up by 800 from the previous year –and this money means even more people can be helped through these charities.

“I want to thank everyone for coming, my festival colleagues and volunteers and also the cathedral and its staff – we look forward to next year’s festival, which will be on between August 21 and 26.”