Fenland folk were warmly welcomed by Marie and Charlie to their home and brewery, Austendyke Ales, on a warm sunny Saturday in July.

Charlie got things off to a flying start by dispensing pints of their beer that had been launched at the Spalding Beer Festival. The beer celebrated 50 years since the famous Spalding BBQ 67 when top band stars of the 60s appeared in an extravaganza of pop music - Cream, Pink Floyd, The Move, Zoot Money, Jimi Hendrix, and Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band (this band making a return visit this year). Back to the brew - various names for the beer were suggested at the beer festival such as Ale Welland Good, BBQ 67, Beers of My Years.

Anyway the beer went down very well with Fenland and top ups, assisted by Tom, continued throughout the afternoon. Not only is Charlie skilled in brewing he is also adept in the BBQ stakes and was soon rustling up tasty beefburgers and spare ribs to accompany the delicious salads and rice etc that Marie had prepared.

Charlie gave an interesting short talk about his brewing and answered questions from the brewery floor. Tootling around, accompanied by the dogs, Fenland folk met with piglets, Lincoln Red cattle, explored a converted railway truck, and a double decker bus.

A most enjoyable afternoon with lovely hosts. Many thanks to Marie and Charlie.