THE BEER was flowing as people flocked to enjoy the entertainment on offer at Wykefest.

The third annual Wyke Regis celebration saw over 50 local beers and ciders on offer as well as musical entertainment and a range of food and craft stalls.

Thousands turned out over the two-day event in Weymouth on Friday and Saturday to help raise funds for Julia’s House children’s hospice.

Event organiser Sarah Dumont said the festival was a resounding success, which attracted around 3,500 people and raised between £7,000 and £8,000 for the charity.

Steve Lee, the assistant store manager at Value House, which hosted the event, said: “We were very lucky with the weather and it was a lot bigger and more successful in our third year.

“Hopefully we will be able to announce our best ever profits for Julia’s House.”

He added: “I would say we had thousands rather than hundreds there over the two days, people just seemed to keep coming in.”

While South Dorset CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) catered to thirsty punters, Stereophonics tribute band The Stereoironics kicked off the entertainment on Friday night and Ed Zelton, otherwise known as Weymouth Elton John tribute act Ed Hintze, topped the bill on Saturday.

Also showing off their skills were the Mill Street Jazz Band, majorette troupe The Ruby Twirlers and Krazy Kev and Dinky with a free magic show.

Petrolheads were able to check out some classics displayed by the Dorset Car Club while children were kept busy with inflatable fun, face painting, gardening competition and go-karting.

Wykefest was able to boast more than 30 local food and craft stalls as well as cookery demonstrations by chefs from the Crab House Cafe, The Phoenix Bakery and White Pepper Cookery School.

Mr Lee said: “All the bands were excellent and we would like to thank all the guys from Julia’s House, CAMRA and all the staff and everyone who out in the hours to make it such a good weekend as well as all the people who turned up.”