Winterfest 2014

What a superb event — another fantastic Winterfest hosted by the Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust!

If you weren't able to get along, you missed the best pre-Christmas bash in Buckinghamshire, without question.

And not just the chance for a bunch of bearded old codgers to quaff gallons of real ale and discuss the merits or de-merits of particular malt and barley combinations like half-lubricated train spotters!

No, this was a delightful family occasion with food and entertainment for all ages and tastes.

As well as live bands, the crowds were treated to some high quality carol singing, courtesy of the Witchert Chorale plus guests.

Then there was the invasion of some curious historical thespians in blacked-up faces — one of whom seemed to prefer a quick swig of 'Fairy Liquid' over the wonderful range of beers, wines, mulled ciders and specialist gins on offer to those of more discerning palettes. Each to their own!

And the marquee, suitably heated to ward off the cold December air, was so wonderfully decorated with huge gingerbread people — so simple and yet so effective: a stroke of creative genius!

And encouraging visitors to don their Festive Pullovers resulted in a real Christmassy atmosphere — another wonderful feature of Winterfest 2014. See the photographs if you need persuading!

There are many folk who give huge amounts of time and effort to making the Winterfest and Summerfest such noteworthy events, and for this the Haddenham community is extremely grateful.

It's such a win-win: providing not-to-be-missed social events which are also fantastic fundraisers for local good causes in Haddenham and nearby towns and villages. Long may these festivals continue and prosper.

To the Haddenham Beer Festivals Trust and all the volunteers — we salute you!

Don't forget to see the photos ...