HALTON’S first music and real ale festival has been hailed a huge success after attracting more than 1,000 visitors.

The three day event in Victoria Park, Widnes, showcased artisan beers, draught ales and traditional ciders with live music performed in a marquee.

It was organised by Andy and Jade Mulholland from The Ferry Tavern in Penketh.

Andy Mulholland said “The event really drew a great crowd. It was nice to see such a diverse group of people coming together enjoying themselves. The people of Widnes certainly know how to have a good time”.

“We hope to be able to take Real Festivales around the north west and we are already busy planning some events for the remainder of the year”

The Mayor of Halton, Clr Margaret Ratcliffe opened the event on Friday evening and was invited to taste the first ale to be served.

Halton Clr Eddie Jones, board member for economic eevelopment, said: “The festival, which was supported by the council, ran smoothly.

“There was a good atmosphere with a lot of people enjoying themselves and we were able to keep the park open as normal.”

Visitors were able to sample more than 30 cask ales, all from hand pulled pumps including a specially made ‘Real Festivales’ ale from St Helens brewery George Wrights.

Live Entertainment included The Mac Bros, local band Lost Decade and Marc Kenny who played covers from James, Oasis, King of Leon and The Beatles.

Popular ales sold out quickly including Cheshire Coachhouses’ Blueberry Beer and Frodshams 'Danny'.

Organisers estimate that a total of 4,500 pints were sold during the weekend.