Tickets for the 35th Dorchester Beerex held in the town’s Corn Exchange are now on sale.

The annual event is one of Dorchester’s biggest fund-raising events and takes place over four sessions on Friday 2nd and Saturday 3rd February 2024.

It is organised by volunteers of the West Dorset CAMRA branch and Dorchester Casterbridge Rotary Club. Last year’s festival raised more than £23,000, and this year organisers are looking to equal or better the figure.

The festival always has a primary sponsor and charity, and the former role sees the return of Cerne Abbas brewery. Representatives from the brewery will be on hand for a friendly chat and to give the chance to sample their award-winning beers.

The festival will be showcasing 80 cask ales with 20 traditional ciders and perry.

Beerex committee chairman Adrian Carey said: "I have been involved with Beerex for three years now and have learnt from some very experienced beer festival organisers on how to run the event.

"We have a great group of volunteers which helps put this festival on, from the committee members who do all the backstage organising to the guys and girls who turn up on the day to set the festival up and serve beer.

"Hopefully this year will raise enough money to be able to say that after 35 years we have raised more than £250,000 for local charities, an amazing boast for a group of beer lovers.

"Thanks to all the local businesses that have sponsored the events over the years and thanks again to Vic and Jodie at Cerne Abbas for being the main sponsor again this year."

This year’s primary charity is Amelia’s Rainbow. Named after Dorset girl Amelia-Grace Cooper who lost her life to cancer, Amelia’s Rainbow supports children in Dorset and the surrounding area suffering from any terminal, life-limiting, serious and chronic illness.

The charity gives support through raising funds for family days out, social activities such as swimming or dancing or any other request which benefits the child through fun, learning, achievement and play.

Charity manager Farah Batchelor said: "We are over the moon to be chosen as a recipient charity. We support so many families in Dorchester, but we are still relatively unknown, so we really appreciate this opportunity.

"Amelia’s Rainbow supports more than 170 Dorset children who have serious illnesses or disabilities. Any donation this weekend will help fund our two holiday homes that grant 80 free holidays a year.

"We also provide events, experiences and gifts to enhance children's play and learning. We're small but mighty so your support is really appreciated by all at our charity."

The festival relies on local businesses and individuals sponsoring barrels. If you would like to help, contact sponsorship co-ordinator Dave Harris on 07977 918130 or through the festival website www.beerex.org.uk

Tickets are £11 which includes a free pint, souvenir glass and programme which includes the full beer menu with tasting notes.

For tickets go to https://beerex.co.uk/product/dorchester-beerex-tickets/