EXTRA booze will be supplied at this year’s Chelmsford Winter Beer and Cider Festival - after punters drunk it all last year!

Organisers of the event being held inside King Edward VI Grammar School, on Broomfield Road, from on Wednesday through to Saturday have ordered 25 per cent more beer this time around.

When the festival, now in its 15th year, was held last February, the drink proved so popular with customers it actually ran out on the last day - two hours before closing time.

More than 200 real ales and 50 ciders and perries will be rolled into the school’s gym and dining hall for the festival run by Chelmsford and Mid-Essex CAMRA.

Brian Debenham, the head organiser, said with the extra supplies and bigger space than last year things are shaping up for a good festival.

Mr Debenham said: “Last year was our first in the school so we had no real idea how many people would turn up.

“But it proved to be really popular and by 8.30pm on the Saturday we had actually run out of beer.

“This time round we have more space to use at the school as we only had the dining hall last time and we have ordered extra beer so we won’t run out this time.

“Last year the school provided a great atmosphere with the staff being extremely welcoming and helpful so I think this year will be a great event.”

Taps will start flowing at 5pm on Wednesday with entry being free.

Doors will open on the following three days at 12noon with entry being free before 6pm.

After this time, entry is £3 on Thursday and Saturday and £5 on Friday with bars closing at 11pm each day.

Festival glasses can be picked up with a £3 refundable deposit.

For more information visit www.chelmsfordbeerandciderfestivals.org.uk.