BEER and live music will once more be on offer at Neilson Park this summer as Goatfest returns.

Haddington Rugby Club has joined forces with the town’s Winton Brewery to organise the festival in May.

Six bands have already been confirmed for the event, which was first held last year.

Bob Snodgrass, who is at the heart of organising the beer and music festival, was predicting another enjoyable time for everyone involved.

He said: “We had great feedback across the board last year.

“We have sold more than 300 tickets already.

“The message is that they did sell out last year and we fully expect it to sell out again. Come and get your tickets!”

Last year’s event was attended by 1,100 people, with the capacity being upped this May to 1,500.

READ MORE: Goatfest music and beer festival proves a great success

It has been confirmed that live music will be provided by Dean Jones, Klones, Beatloaf, Auld Hat, Moontrip Punx and Jack Robertson.

Entertainment gets under way at noon and runs through to 6pm on May 18.

Mr Snodgrass, who has been involved with the East Region League Division One side since 1979, told the Courier that it was all about “building” on last year’s success.

A survey was carried out following the event last May, with steps taken to enhance the sound system and again provide a range of live bands.

The idea stemmed from a similar initiative held by Dumfries Saints RFC.

Mr Snodgrass said: “They run a beer festival called the Beltie Beer Festival and had been running it for a couple of years before Covid and ran it again in 2022.

“They talked about how much fun it was but also attracting beyond the usual people who go to rugby club events.

“The target audience is anyone in the surrounding area who loves music and having a good time with friends.”

Mr Snodgrass described the festival as “an event for the community, supported by the community”.

Last year, more than 100 people volunteered to help out and Mr Snodgrass was again thankful to volunteers and partners.

He said: “We find the partnership with Winton Brewery really productive.

“They are partnering us again this year.”

Go to haddingtonrfc.co.uk for more information on Goatfest.