The popular CAMRA Isle of Man Beer and Cider Festival will return after a two-year break in April.

Lockdown and Covid-19 restrictions forced the cancellation of the previous two events, but more than 150 ales, ciders, perries and fruit wines will return to the Villa Marina Royal Hall between April 7 and 9.

Each year since its inception, festival organisers have chosen an island group or charity to be a beneficiary of the event and REACH has agreed to be this year’s nominated organisation.

REACH is an acronym for Reflect, Embrace And Create Hope and is a charity which helps people undergoing mental health problems which, if not confronted, can lead to serious consequences for the sufferer.

REACH was formed in 2019 by footballer Adam Hudgeon who himself had suffered anxiety and depression in the past.

The organisation has received charitable status in the island and Adam now dedicates himself full-time to helping others re-gain control of their lives.

Tickets for the ninth festival will soon be available from the VillaGaiety box office, 694500, the Welcome Centre at the Sea Terminal, online at www.iombeerfestival.com or on the door subject to availability. Pre-booking is highly recommended.