AN annual beer and cider festival saw its best ever turnout.

Around 1,800 people descended on the event held across four days at Plume Academy in Fambridge Road, Maldon.

Chris Harvey, chairman of Maldon and Dengie Camra, said: “The beer practically run out on Saturday afternoon and we had to give free admission.

“It was so popular on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday lunchtime.

“It was really well supported and we have had lots of great feedback. It just seems to get better every year.”