A MUCH-LOVED beer festival which faced an uncertain future will go ahead this year – and organisers hope it will be even bigger and better.

The Coggeshall Beer Festival was traditionally held at the National Trust’s Grange Barn in the town.

But last year it had to move to St Nicholas Church after the organisation pulled out saying it didn’t have enough staff to go ahead with the event.

Despite concerns about whether the event could continue organisers have rallied around to ensure this year it goes without a hitch. It will again run from the church with the event organised by the Red Fox Brewery.

Nick Unsworth, from the brewery, said it was always certain the event was going to go ahead this year.

He said: “It was never really in doubt as to whether it was going to go ahead this year.

“I know there was some drama last year but it went really well in the end and we had a fantastic turnout.”

This year several bands have been lined-up to play at the event and a hog roast will take place on the Friday evening.

Mr Unsworth said: “Holding it at the church last year certainly meant there was a more village-y feel to it - the Sunday was a really family friendly day.

“With the weather how it is at the moment we’re hoping it stays as it is and lots of people come down and see us.

“We’re going to have around 30 beers from all around and there’s plenty of car parking so we’re looking forward to seeing lots of people come down.”

Beers from breweries including Dominian, George’s, Harwich Town, Shalford and, of course, Red Fox are all set to appear at the festival.

The specific drinks are not known yet because it depends on what the breweries have available at the time.

But it is hoped that ales from as far away as Scotland will be available at the event.

The festival will run from August 31 until September 2 in the grounds of St Nicholas Church, Coggeshall.