THE second annual Chester Beer and Wine Fest, as part of the Food, Drink and Lifestyle Festival, is building on its successful first year to become even bigger and better.

Festival Chairman Jane Casson explains: “Last year’s Beerfest highlight the many micro breweries throughout Cheshire, North Wales and the North West.

“We were delighted with the response by both the brewers and the public to the event. Each of the 4 sessions had over 400 people attending and it became obvious that there was a huge demand to be in a quality environment and able to have a great choice of local beers and ciders.

“So for the 2011 event we have moved the venue in to the main Grandstand at the Racecourse, added over 50 wines from across the world to the tasting menu and found some of the best local music acts to accompany the tasting sessions. We think it is going to be a great occasion at the Racecourse.”

Local breweries featured include Spitting Feathers, and Weetwood Ales who are well know but there are many more from across the region and you will be able to taste in excess of 40 hand-pulled real ales.

Nick Mullen, co-organiser, really takes the business to heart and has spent a fortune on equipment to dispense the beer.

“I think we have one of the only units in the UK dedicated to dispensing a perfect pint every time. All of our barrels are on lees that are spring loaded to ensure the barrel is tilted gently as it empties, each barrel is wrapped in a chilled ‘coat’ to ensure perfect temperature.

“Every one of our beers is hand pulled through an engine with sparklers attached to ensure the pint stays creamy all the way down the glass.

“I really cant think there will be a better pint served anywhere this Easter.”

Organiser have thought of everything with each session being accompanied by wines from merchants like Chester's Corks Out who will be bringing wines from across the globe and Lovely Bubbly who will be providing champagnes and bubblies from all over the world. This was in response to demand from non beer drinkers who said they wanted to enjoy the unique mix of great tastes and good music that the Festival provides.

Local band Thesuns will be featured at the event and their collection of uniquely Chester songs will create a great local feel to the event.

The Chester Beer&Winefest runs from the 21st – 25th April and you can but a ticket to the event, which is just £5, by visiting www.chesterfoodanddrink.com .

Tickets will be available on the door of the main stand at Chester Racecourse but no admittance will be possible once capacity for each session has been reached