TWO thousand real ale fans quaffed their way through 1,250 gallons of amber nectar to raise £20,000 for charity at last month’s Rainhill beer festival.

They didn’t quite drink the place dry but tried their best. Out of 100 cask ales and stouts on offer at Rainhill Recreation Club only one gallon of beer was left.

Organisers estimated a total of 20,000 half pints were consumed at the event that was backed by Campaign for Real Ale supporters, Liverpool Organic Brewing Company, George Wright brewery, the Coach and Horses, Victoria Hotel, Cricketers Arms and Ruskin Pavilion.

Proceeds from the festival will go to community and Rotary charities.

Festival spokesman Dave Roberts said: “Our own St Helens CAMRA branch and 100 local businesses and supporters provided much needed funds, thank you to you all.”