A NEW initiative is being utilised to boost a popular annual Vale of Clwyd event.

Organisers are busy preparing for this year's Denbigh Beer Festival on September 22, which will be the 15th festival.

Instead of the organisers choosing the drinks on offer at this year's event, though, they have opted to get some expert local knowledge.

Chris Roberts, from festival organisers the Denbigh Round Table, said: "We are trying to make it a bit more professional using Tom McNeill, from Heavy Industry, to help us in choosing the beers.

"It's mainly independent Welsh brewers, with one or two from Liverpool and Shrewsbury.

"It should be the best ever in terms of selection."

There will also be drinks such as Prosecco, cider and soft drinks, as well as the beers and ales, and food will be served throughout the day.

All proceeds from the 15th Denbigh Beer Festival will go to charity.

Music will be performed on the day by Keenan Jones, Luke and Wilbur Milton, with the festival running between 12 and 10.30pm.

"Sponsors are very welcome to support us as well." added Mr Roberts.

"We made over £10,000 of profit made last year and it goes back to local causes."

Over 40 sponsors have so far been secured for the beer festival, with the main sponsor being Artisan.

As well as potential sponsors, local charities are also invited to get in touch with Denbigh Round Table to see if any financial help can be offered from the festival profits.

Denbigh Round Table is open to men between the ages of 18 and 45, meeting once a fortnight.

Go to www.denbighbeerfestival.org for more information.