The Macclesfield Beer Festival is back after a two year break! It has also has a new name, from this point on it will now be known as The Macclesfield Craft Beer and Gin Festival.

The event will take place on Friday May 6 and Saturday May 7 2022.

Running since 1995, the beer festival has raised over a quarter-of-a-million pounds for local charities.

Like most things, COVID put a stop to the tradition, but the event will return this year at Macclesfield Rugby Club on Priory Lane.

Macclesfield Roundtable, in association with CAMRA and Macclesfield Rugby Club are organising the festival.

Funds raised this year will go to local charities including Children's Charity, Ruby's Fund and Macclesfield animal charity, Windyways.

Macclesfield Nub News spoke to Rob Pearce, who is Media Liaison Officer for Macclesfield Roundtable.

"The fact you can pull together an event where 3000 people come and drink beer and have a good time while raising money for charity is amazing," he said.

"In the past we've raised funds for East Cheshire Hospice, Cheshire Search and Rescue, Park Lane School, Space 4 Autism amongst others".

This year's festival will have over 200 beers, many from local breweries including; Storm, Red Willow, Bollington Brewery, Wincle Brewery and more.

In addition to the amazing beer selection there will also be an eclectic mix of 84 different ciders to suit all tastes.

And for those of you not so keen on beer or cider, there is also a gin bar, serving an array of locally sourced gins. They've even got a selection of wine, prosecco and soft drinks to make sure no one will go thirsty.

Tickets are just £12.50 (plus booking fee) for the evening sessions, including your commemorative glass and festival beer guide.

The Saturday daytime is free for all and will have a family focus, as there will be fairground games, food, market stalls, soft drinks and of course Beer, Cider and Gin!

Stalls can register their interest via [email protected].

The Friday evening and Saturday evening sessions have live music, with a bill filled entirely with Macclesfield performers.

Musicians to perform include Big Jam and Chester Le Flange Experience along with energetic acoustic duo Kato and Joe.

"If you're interested in helping out, we would love some more volunteers at the bar," added Rob.

"We still need volunteers to help run the bar for all sessions. Simply email [email protected].

"All volunteers you will get a t-shirt, which is yours to keep and apparently make excellent pyjamas when you've finished pulling pints."

"You'll also get a free meal to keep your energy up and you can taste the beers (responsibly) so you know what you are serving and can talk to the customers about them."

If you're after some charity and barwork experience on your CV, the bar volunteer shifts are as follows:

Friday Night - 5.45pm to Close

Saturday Afternoon – 4pm to 6pm (only need a small number)