More than 800 festival-goers braved the rain on Saturday to raise a glass and show their support for Cogges Manor Farm at the annual Beer and Cider Festival fundraiser.

The event turned into an epic indoor festival, thanks to the unseasonably wet weather.

Beer drinkers and music lovers enjoyed a cheerful undercover celebration in the Barns, with more than 30 different craft beers and 10 ciders from local and regional artisan breweries.

There was also a line-up of local bands throughout the day and into the night.

The ninth Beer and Cider Festival Fundraiser for Cogges Heritage Trust was back for the first time since 2019, and this year included a popular family-friendly afternoon - with a colourful array of raincoats and wellies to match the festival-facepainting.

Witney Gazette: Cogges Cider and Beer Festival

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Live acts included Witney's Buttercoss Ukulele Group, Matt Russ, upcoming stars Quartermelon, The Jerichos, Tom Wells, Genevieve Miles and her band - who had determinedly travelled from Birmingham on the day - 'one-to-watch' singer-songwriter Torrin and epic all-star performers, The Britpop Band.

Charbury Morris entertained with feathers, bells and outfits dancing indoors and in the rain.

Witney Gazette: Cogges Cider and Beer Festival 2023

The event was broadcast live by Witney Radio who will be re-playing interviews with the bands and Cogges' team.

General manager Guy Reed said: "We had an absolutely fantastic day, with over 800 people attending from the local area and further afield who braved the awful weather to support Cogges.

"I'd like to thank our festival sponsors who also helped to support the event and attended a special launch evening the night before, and to all of our volunteers and bands. 

Witney Gazette: Cogges Cider and Beer Festival

"There was a fabulous atmosphere throughout, the Barns were full of smiling faces with lots of fun being had. 

"The biggest thank you of all to everyone who came along, drank beer, enjoyed delicious food, bought a raffle ticket or a drinks-token, and danced the night away."

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He added: "Cogges is managed by a charitable trust, and after a few lean years we are delighted to see the events programme back in full swing - things are really looking up.

Witney Gazette: Cogges Cider and Beer Festival 2023

"There's plenty more to come this summer, with children's holiday activities, theatre on the lawn – and we can't wait for the Harvest Fayre Weekend on September 2 and 3 -  expect family fun and fete games, crafts, bar and music with a focus on food and garden produce.

"Keep checking our website for what's on, and keep visiting Cogges." 

Witney Gazette: Cogges Cider and Beer Festival 2023