DESPITE the looming threat of stormy weather, this 12th Minehead Real Ale Festival was so successful that organisers ran out of beer on the final afternoon!

Organised by the Somerset Branch of CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale) and taking place on the platform of Minehead Railway Station last Saturday (September 10) and Sunday (September 11), the festival's main emphasis was on beers brewed by Somerset's award-winning smaller breweries, although some styles of traditional ales were sourced from further afield.

Around 100 different brews were on sale throughout the two days along with a variety of 'festival specials', ciders, perries, wine and soft drinks.

Food was available at the Turntable Cafe throughout the day, while the evening featured a hog roast organised by the Dunster-based Yarn Market Hotel.

Saturday night entertainment was provided by the Belfast Busker followed on Sunday by the Tone Valley Jazz Band.

An extended number of steam trains ran throughout the two days, including a 1960's diesel train which operated up until 10.50pm on the Saturday.

David McCubbin, Sales and Marketing Manager for the West Somerset Railway, said: “It was a very good day and was very well attended, so much so that they had run out of beer by Sunday afternoon.

“The great thing is that the weather held out for us, which is lucky as people tend to bring their own chairs and sit along the platform.

“People made good use of the extra trains and everyone seemed to be having a good time.”

For more pictures, see this Thursday's West Somerset County Gazette.