ROLL out the barrel -  that’s what organisers of one of the biggest beer festivals in the south west will be doing  in Newton Abbot next week.

Maltingsfest opens at Osbourne Park in the town on Thursday, April 18, but ahead of the event organisers  Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) had a little something to give back to the town.

 ‘Every year we like to make a donation to the Newton Abbot Mayor’s Charity from funds raised from the previous festival,’ said Paul Arrowsmith,   SIBA SW regional chairman.

‘This year we are delighted to present Cllr David Cornley-Walker with a cheque for £250 which will be going to his chosen charity The Devon Air Ambulance.’

The three-day festival, one of the most  comprehensive festival of drinks produced by local brewers in the south-west opens to the public from  5pm on April 18 once judging of the ales is completed.

It showcases a huge range of over 300 beers, including cask, craft keg beers and lagers, local ciders and local spirits including gins, whiskies and rums.

Opening times and ticket prices for the  festival are available from www.maltingsfest.co.uk