IT IS an event that promises to find a special place in the hearts – and stomachs – of the community as the lockdown blues lift, while raising cash for good causes in the process.

Farnham Lions’ first annual Cider and Sausage Festival is set to be held in Farnham’s Gostrey Meadow – near the railway station – on September 4 with pork aplenty and fine drinks on tap.

The open-air event will have two sessions including a family-friendly session from midday to 4pm and adults only from 5pm to 9pm.

Guests will be able to sample and enjoy numerous types of cider provided by local producers including Tutts Clump Cider and Jars Cider from West Berkshire and a full bar provided by Wrights Lions Brewery.

There will also be real ales, Prosecco, wines and more, all offered alongside various food stalls with a range of German, English, Italian and speciality sausages specially crafted for the event by Morgans Butchers on The Ridgway, Farnham.

Look out for the ‘one foot long Irish sausage’ special!

Ales, lagers, wines, Prosecco, spirits and soft drinks will be available from the main bar. There will also be a coffee stall selling artisan coffee and more, a Thai satay stall, with plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans.

Meanwhile, the Fabulous Funky Funks will bring the party vibe to the big stage. The six-piece funky disco band will bring some serious sounds to the meadow, playing all your funky favourites to make you dance the day away.

Ticketing and entry

To enable the maximum number of people to attend safely there will be two sessions, from midday to 4pm and 5pm to 9pm. The midday to 4pm session is a family session with free entry for the under-18s.

Each child under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult holding a valid session ticket (maximum of two children accompanying each adult). 

The evening session will be for adults only, aged 18 and over, and all ticket holders may be asked to provide photo ID by the security team at the gate.

There will be plenty of space within Gostrey Meadow and ticket holders are invited to bring their own picnic chairs – but not tables, food or drink.

Tickets cost just £10 including the ticketing fee and can be purchased online by visiting www.farnhamlions.org.uk/cider

But don’t leave it too late, more than 1,000 are already sold!