THE popular Pocktoberfest beer and music festival will take place in Pocklington after all this year, after organisers found a new venue.

Pocklington & Market Weighton Round Table said in August that the event - which has been held in the East Yorkshire town each year since 2003 - would have to be cancelled this year due to building work at the traditional site, The Old Railway Station.

But now chairman Greg Frith has revealed that it will go ahead at Pocklington Rugby Club in Burnby Lane, albeit for one day only, from noon until 10pm on Saturday October 25.

The festival will feature 20 Yorkshire real ales, lagers and cider and food, along with music from local bands, and raise funds for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and various local charities.

A nominal entry fee of £10 includes a programme and souvenir glass with first drink of choice.

Mr Frith said recent years had seen the festival exceed expectations and grow into a two-day event headlining some famous musical artists and seeing the Old Railway Station packed to capacity.

After finding the venue was unavailable due to building work, organisers were able to secure Pocklington Rugby Club but only for one day of the weekend, due to the club’s sporting and membership commitments.

"Size restrictions also necessitate the hiring of a marquee to ensure the live music can go ahead but this in turn will increase costs," he said.

"Faced with the prospect of having to cancel altogether, the Round Table entourage decided to take the opportunity to return to basics and try to maintain the resulting fundraising momentum.

"We are going back to our roots - and it’s all about the beer!"

"The emphasis will be on a locally grown festival showcasing local music and singing to induce a great atmosphere - this is an opportunity for any music artists in the area to show us what they can do.”