Ale festival honours flood effort

Dozens of ales will feature in the fundraising festival

The first Stonehaven Real Ale Festival is being held - and it will raise money for rescuers who helped when the town was struck by floods.

Dozens of ales will feature in the event on Thursday and Friday at the town hall.

It will raise money for the Maritime Rescue Institute, (MRI).

The Kincardineshire town was among the areas worst affected by heavy rain and flooding which swepts many parts of the country on Sunday.

Festival organiser Robert Lindsay said: "It's unbelievable that our town has been so badly hit by these terrible floods. Our hearts go out to all the families and businesses affected.

"However, we think it is important the festival goes ahead for two reasons; firstly, is to bring a bit of cheer back to the town but more importantly the festival is aimed at raising money for MRI - the men and women who were out rescuing people from their homes at the height of the flood."

It is hoped hundreds of local people and visitors will attend.