AN historic fort is being filled with fine ales and ciders for the return of an annual beer festival.

There will be more than 50 real ales and 20 ciders to try out at this year’s Redoubt Beer Festival.

Now in its ninth year, the Harwich Brewing Company will be bringing an array of beverages for visitors to enjoy from Thursday, July 26, until Saturday, July 28.

Paul Mellor, owner of Harwich Brewing Company, said: “This year there will be 58 real ales, 24 ciders and 14 craft kegs of British beer.”

The popular cherry and strawberry beer will also be returning to the festival for residents to taste.

If ale does not tickle your fancy there will be a selection of red wine, white wine and Prosecco to drink throughout the event.

Paul said: “For the festival we have some different caterers this year providing food for visitors.”

He said one of the food stands which could prove popular with crowds is a curry cart.

Aside from food and drink there will be a host of entertainment from musicians during the festival.

Paul said: “There is going to be a lunar eclipse on Friday night, so that will be the highlight of the festival for that day.

“We are keeping the festival open for longer on Friday to see the eclipse.

“We should have a clear view of the night sky from the fort which will be fantastic.”

The beer festival will be open from 11am to 11pm each day.

Entry is £3 with a free half pint of beers on entry if visitors bring their own pewter tankard.

The event will once again be welcome to children and dogs.

For more information visit, www.harwichtown.co.uk/beer-festival.