A GERMAN-inspired annual event is under new management with the aim to allow the celebration to “flourish” in the future.

Now in its 11th year, the Hampshire OctoberFest will return to Basingstoke Cricket Club, on the weekend of October 11 to 13.

However, having been in charge of the organisation of the event for the last 10 years, Wessex Heritage Trust has handed over the stewardship of the event to Destination Basingstoke.

The not-for-profit organisation which champions events around Basingstoke and Deane will team up with the North Hampshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale and the Basingstoke Sports and Social Club to host this year’s OctoberFest.

Managing director at Destination Basingstoke, Felicity Edwards, said: “We are very excited to be taking over the amazing institution that Hampshire OctoberFest has become.

“As an event that showcases Hampshire produce, based in the centre of Basingstoke, it fits with everything that Destination Basingstoke stands for, and we are looking forward to working with all the partners to build on its success way into the future and ensure the event flourishes.”

Wessex Heritage Trust took the decision to hand over the reins after the charity announced it would be moving out of Basingstoke after a 21-year stay.

Director of development at the Wessex Heritage Trust, Ian Smith said: “It is quite a wrench to hand over the Hampshire OctoberFest to Destination Basingstoke, having established the event 10 years ago, but as we focus on our developing areas of work with vulnerable people it is the right time to pass it to their very capable hands and I look forward to seeing it continue.”

At the event there will be a selection of real ales and ciders as well as wines, a gin bar and live music.

Andwell Brewing Company is sponsoring the event and will offer a range of its real ales.

Adam Komrower, from Andwell Brewing Company, said: “Our ales have always been on offer at the Hampshire OctoberFest and so we are really pleased that we are able to get more involved to support it.”

The Friday evening of Hampshire OctoberFest will see the return of the Works Night Out aspect, which is being sponsored by Wote Street People, which is working with Destination Basingstoke to recruit staff for the festival.

Tickets are now available from the box office at Anvil Arts.