SILHILLIANS are being invited to raise a glass at the Shirley Beer and Cider Festival.
The event, organised by Shirley Round Table and Shirley Ladies Circle, promises to be the biggest yet with 150 ales and ciders on offer until May 16.
As well as a tipple festival there will be comedy, live music, family entertainment to entertain the crowds at Camp Hill Rugby Club.
The festival will start with a comedy night on Thursday (May 14) and will feature Josh Weller, Andy White, Tom Towelling, Abbie Hale, and Jay Handley.
The festival opens on Thursday evening with a comedy night featuring a confirmed line-up of, alongside the first opportunity for visitors to sample the extensive range of beers and ciders on offer.
Friday night will see the introduction of Mocktoberfest, with an Oompah band, German-style beers, and a Bavarian-inspired atmosphere to the festival marquee.
Saturday’s family fun day will include unlimited use of inflatables, face painting, food vendors, and live music throughout the day showcasing Solihull talent.
Over the years, the festival has raised many thousands of pounds for organisations including The Lily Mae Foundation, Shirley Scouts, Reynolds Cross School, Cycling Without Age, Solihull Children’s Services, West Midlands Police victim support initiatives, St John Ambulance and Earlswood Village Hall, among many others.
Sponsorship from local businesses plays a key role in helping the event grow while maximising funds for local good causes.
Local businessman Elliott Robinson, of oven cleaning service Ovenu Solihull, who has supported the festival for several years, is this year sponsoring a banner in the food area.
He said: “Shirley Beer and Cider Festival is a real highlight in the calendar and it’s fantastic to see so many people coming together to support it.
It raises vital funds for charities and community projects locally, and sponsorship from businesses plays a big part in making it possible.”