Copmanthorpe’s annual beer festival, Coptoberfest, is returning in full this October after last year’s tentative gathering due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The two-day festival, held in the village’s St. Giles’ church, raises money for charities and local community good-causes with past beneficiaries including St. Leonard’s Hospice, 1st Copmanthorpe Scout Group, Copmanthorpe Brownies, Contact the Elderly, Panda Playgroup and the Primary School Wildlife club – to name a few.

Envisioned by The Rev. Geoff Mumford and lead sponsor/Ainsty Ales owner Andy Herrington the festival has raised over £18,000 for charities and good causes to date.

Co-organiser and event founder, The Rev. Geoff Mumford said;

“When I first envisaged holding a beer festival in one of the four churches I Iook after, the focus had to be on how it helps others as well as bringing communities together. Plus, it is important that we introduce people to some quality local produce too – all of our beers are sourced from within a 25-mile radius of St. Giles’ church which makes it a true representation of our locality.”

Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic meant 2020’s event was cancelled, and although 2021’s was organised with great care, there was little time to focus on the fundraising – but Andy, Geoff and the rest of the organisational team and supporters are ready to make sure the event returns with greater impact for the charities it supports.

Dawn Clements, Director of Income Generation, St Leonard’s Hospice:

“We’re so grateful for the support of community events such as Coptoberfest, which help to raise much-needed funds for your local Hospice. The support of these events enables the Hospice to continue to provide specialist palliative care and support for local people with life-limiting illnesses. Every pound raised makes a difference, and it promises to be fun too!

Martin Wing, Explorer Scout Leader at Copmanthorpe Tempest Explorer Unit;

“The money we have been given by Coptoberfest has been put to good use. We bought hammocks which really give our Explorers an exciting and different camping experience. Between Explorers and the Scout Group, we collectively have over 100 young people who we help grow and develop, so any extra funds are always welcomed.”

Coptoberfest returns on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th October in St. Giles’ church, Copmanthorpe. Over the two days and evening, visitors will have around 30 beers to choose from including the new addition of a local lager, as well as cider, wine, locally sourced gins and pork pies from Ged Bell in Dringhouses. A selection of live music acts will entertain throughout the day and evening too. Proceedings begin on Friday 14th where the Lord Mayor of York, Councillor David Carr BSc FRICS will officially open the event.

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