80 beers, 21 ciders and eased restrictions: Dorchester Beerex returns
Dorchester Beerex organisers say they are doing everything they can to make the event safe after loosened restrictions.
Last updated 5th Feb 2022
Dorchester Beerex is back with 80 beers, 21 ciders and masks are optional.
This weekend's beer festival is one of the county's first events following the easing of most coronavirus measures last month.
That means you're not required to wear a mask indoors - although event organisers say they're still doing all they can to make sure everyone feels safe.
Staff and volunteers have all tested beforehand, and anyone going along is asked to do the same. People are also being asked for their contact details when they purchase a ticket in case of an outbreak.
Beerex spokesperson Rich Gabe said:
"This year has raised organisational challenges like never seen by us before, our priority is running a charity fundraising event as safely as possible and giving customers a great time.
"Beerex makes a superb night out while raising money for good causes like this year’s main charity the Dorchester Youth & Community Centre (DYCC).
"Fortunately, where restrictions were dropped on January the 26th we don't necessarily need to be as detailed with our COVID plan than we thought we were going to have to be.
"If social distancing had been in place, the festival probably would have been near-on impossible to run.
"We're going to do the best we can with what we've got but everything will be done within government guidelines.
"The main thing is that customers come here, have a good time and raise a lot of money for charity."
Each year the event organisers select a charitable cause to donate proceeds to. Over £200,000 has been raised for local causes since the first festival in 1988.
This year Beerex is raising money for Dorchester Youth and Community Centre this year.
Kate Parkham the Youth Work Manager from DYCC said on hearing of being nominated as principal charity:
“We are delighted that Dorchester Beerex has made us the main charity for 2022. The funds raised will make a huge difference, helping us to provide young people a safe space to socialise along with a range of activities and support. Thank you to everyone at Dorchester Beerex”.
Beerex Chairman Ellis Ford said:
"Beer Festivals are a great British institution and something we have missed for the last 2 years.
"Dorchester Beerex is a great day/ evening out with ales carefully chosen and always with the knowledge that you will have ales and also ciders that you haven't had before.
"Combined with music on Friday and Saturday night and the knowledge that you helping raise thousands for charity. Dorchester Beerex offers something for everyone.”