A BEER and music festival will be coming to a north Cumbrian pub later this month.

Taking place at the Duke of Cumberland pub in Castle Carrock on October 19 and 20, the festival will feature several local bands – some known names and some up and comers – as well as guest ales and beers.

Julie Harrison, who runs the pub with her daughter Sophie MacGillivray, said the event was organised with the help of Jonny Forster, frontman of Carlisle rock band Hardwicke Circus.

It’s on the back of his announcement of a new record label to support smaller acts in Carlisle to thrive and get their music heard.

Ms Harrison explained that the idea came from a conversation she, Jonny, and drummer Tom had, and it’s hoped this event will bring in more custom and attention for the area.

“We thought, why not? We always used to have music on,” she said.

The first day will be focused on rock music, with the second day focused on a more folk and blues feel, with some covers.

Ms Harrison has had a fruitful relationship with Jonny and the band, which started off as professional but has now blossomed into a friendship.

She said: “Years ago, I had two pubs in Threlkeld. I was out with my parents one night when I heard this lovely noise coming from a little bar - they were just jamming, and I went in.

“Jokingly, I asked for 'Honky Tonk Woman' – they played it!

“I then asked them what they were doing the next weekend and offered them a gig.

“They came over with all their parents and grandparents. It was packed – it was great, and we sort of stayed friends, and now, when I can, I give them a gig here.”

The event will be free and if it’s a success the plan is to do a bigger one next year in the summer and make it annual.

Local beers will be stocked, including from the Twice Brewed and Hawkshead breweries.

The full lineup has not yet been revealed, but a partial one includes the following acts:

  • Hardwicke Circus
  • Joe King Carrasco
  • Arguer
  • Redfish
  • The Unsung
  • Antics
  • 99 Mr Beans
  • Sultans of the Source
  • Loose Cargo
  • Folkin Teachers
  • Stew Simpson
  • Mark Carruthers
  • Dan Mason
  • Jonathan Musgrave
  • The Rukus

The event takes place form 3pm till late. The marquee bar is cash only but tokens can be bought from the pub on card. For more information, contact Julie/Sophie at 01228 670341.