The west Dorset branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and Dorchester Rotary have announced that the main beneficiary of Beerex 2026 is to be People First Dorset (PFD) which aims to assist people with learning disabilities.
The sell-out event returns to Dorchester Corn Exchange over the weekend of February 6th & 7th.
As part of the build up to Beerex 2026, the first 100 people to place an order for the festival via the website will be entered into a free prize draw. One lucky individual will win a free ticket to a session of their choice at both Weymouth Octoberfest 2026 & Dorchester Beerex 2027 along with a 2026 Beerex shirt with the winner being contacted via email.
People First Dorset aims to assist people with learning disabilities through friendship clubs, helping to connect with local communities via skill sets such as communication skills and reducing social isolation and to promote independence and well being.
Laura Kerr, PFD Manager said: “To hear from Les we’d been chosen as Dorchester Beerex’s main charity for 2026, was a wonderful surprise that came out of the blue. We could not be more excited and delighted, plus we deeply appreciate the work Dorchester Beerex does for the local community, and of course the brewing industry. Members are already planning fun beer-themed games for our stand, so please come over and have a go!”
PFD Project Worker, Kerry Martin (who has a learning disability) said, “I am very happy the beer festival have chosen us as their charity for next year. It means a lot to us, and I’m already looking forward to helping out, and meeting lots of people. Please come over and say hello if you see me!”
To date the festival has raised just over £300K for good local causes; this is all possible through the generosity of local companies and breweries through barrel sponsorship and raffle prize donations. If you would like to get involved and promote your business through sponsoring a barrel please visit www.Beerex.co.uk for more details. Money from the raffle will once again go to the Dorchester Youth and Community Centre in Kings Road, Dorchester which gives valuable motivation to the youth of Dorchester and vulnerable people.
West Dorset CAMRA Press Officer Rich Gabe said: “2026 will be a fantastic year for our branch of CAMRA, with celebrations in the planning for our 50th year. Dorchester Beerex is a great way to kick the winter blues, meet friends new and old while enjoying well kept ales and ciders. I know the Beerex committee members are hoping to raise as much money possible for People First Dorset, it’s going to be a superb event.”
Customers can expect music in the evenings with a party atmosphere on the Saturday evening and beer, banter and chatter on the lunchtime sessions. The festival attracts a wide variety of customers of all ages and backgrounds, with many visiting the town from afar. Upstairs there is seating for over 100 customers.
Tickets are on sale from December 1st, priced £12 to include a commemorative glass, colour programme listing all beers and ciders with tasting notes and two free half pint drink tokens.
CAMRA members will receive an extra free pint.
Confirmed ticket outlets are:
- Dorchester. Convivial Rabbit, Copper St Brewery Tap & Tom Browns.
- Poundbury. Brace of Butchers
- Weymouth. The Globe.
- Online via www.Beerex.co.uk.
