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Ribble Valley to host 'Middle Earth Beer Festival'
CAPITALISING on its Lord of the Rings links, the Ribble Valley will host its first "Middle Earth Beer Festival" this year.
The three-day festival, from April 2nd-4th, has been organised and sponsored by The Aspinall Arms, Mitton, and celebrates the Ribble Valley's position as the official geographical centre of the United Kingdom.
It is thought Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien took inspiration for parts of his fictional "Middle Earth" – particularly the rural idyll of "The Shire" – from the countryside around Hurst Green.
Aspinall Arms landlord Simon Forester explained: "J.R.R. Tolkien was a frequent visitor to the Ribble Valley and his eldest son John studied at Stonyhurst College, Hurst Green. While Tolkien was here, he loved walking and roamed the Ribble Valley. The places he visited and their names often found their way into his books."
The festival will feature the best in local brewing, including beers from Bowland Brewery, Copper Dragon, Heather, Tirrel and more. To mark this celebration event, award-winning Grindleton Brewhouse will also launch "1420" – a special edition beer to be brewed for this festival.
Grindleton's Head Brewer Ian Lait said: "As a child I loved reading J.R.R. Tolkien and in his books 1420 holds a significant connection for beer."
Ian added: "Because my family owned a pub the significance of '1420' always stayed with me. This festival is the perfect opportunity to brew a local beer which celebrates the books and J.R.R. Tolkien's strong connection with the area."
The Aspinall Arms is also renowned for its live music events, so it is no surprise that local bands will also feature at the festival. Topping the bill on April 4th will be the internationally acclaimed "Swing Commanders", with "The Ragamuffins" playing on April 3rd and "The Ribble and Booze" opening the festival on April 2nd.
Admission prices for various sessions range from 2 to 10, with more details and advance bookings available from The Aspinall Arms on 01254 826223 or online at www.aspinallarms.co.uk/beerfestival
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Weather for Clitheroe
Monday 28 May 2012
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
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