A PUB in Maldon is set to bring festive cheer with its market and beer festival after last year's festivities were cut short.

The Queen Victoria in Spital Road will be unveiling its Christmas Beer Festival on Friday (December 3).

Its themed around North vs South and runs from Friday up to Sunday, December 12.

The pub will have a whopping 45 ales over the period of the festival along with six ciders and two perries all from breweries in the area such as Mighty Oak, Red fox, Crouch Vale and Wibblers, Leigh on Sea and further afield from Cumbria, the West Country, Kent and more.

On Saturday the venue is also hosting the Christmas market which will feature sellers from the area with handmade crafts, candles, artwork and gifts - ideal for festive shopping.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Last year's beer festival at The Queen Victoria in MaldonLast year's beer festival at The Queen Victoria in Maldon

There will also be various charity stalls and food will be available inside the pub.

James Burrell-Cook, from The Queen Victoria, said: "The Market and Beer Festival was created last year during the pandemic to bring a little festive cheer in what was an awful year for breweries, pubs, small independent sellers that all had been hit by the restrictions, of course many still are being impacted.

"Last year's market was a great success and for those who wanted to shop during the pandemic with social distancing.

"The festival got off to a cracking start but then restrictions came in and we were forced to close.

"The feeling was that there was a great opportunity for a winter ale festival."

The Queen Victoria team have just finished more than £1,700 for its Defibrillator Fund which, once installed, will sit on the outside of the pub for use in emergencies.

Funds were raised by its customers and through special quiz nights.