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Days out

Conrad Astley
20/ 1/2006

Supping pints from around the world, looking at the latest caravan gadgets, and watching the cream of Britain's cycling talent - we look at what's going on over the next week.

REAL ale lovers will be able to step into a winter wonderland this weekend.

The National Winter Ales Festival, organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the biggest of its kind in the North West, is up and running at New Century Hall.

The festival was a long-standing annual favourite among real ale drinkers, but returned to the city last year after a two year absence - a comeback that proved so popular the organisers were forced to shut the doors at 5.30pm because the venue was packed to capacity.

And those who don't like their poison to come in a bottle with a piece of lemon sticking out of the top are guaranteed a treat this year.

As well as being able to quaff pints made by Manchester's brewing treasures like Hydes, Holts, Lees and Robinson's, visitors can try samples from breweries across the UK, ranging from Isle of Skye Brewery's Black Cuillin to Exmoor Beast from Devon.

They will also be able to try a range of foreign beers, along with ciders and perries, while enjoying live music, which organisers say will be low key and unamplified - but high quality.

They can also find out who won this year's Champion Winter Beer of Britain Award, announced during a trade session yesterday (Thursday) and try a pint to see if they agree with the judges' verdict.

The festival takes place at New Century Hall on Corporation Street today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday) until 10.30pm. Entrance fee is £4 on Friday, and £3 at other times, but CAMRA members get a £1 reduction. Tickets are available on the door.

FOR those who can think of no better way of spending the weekend than cruising up and down Britain's motorways towing a caravan, this weekend promises to be a treat.

The Manchester Caravan and Motorhome Show, enjoying its 10th anniversary, is underway at the G-Mex.

Visitors to the show, which pulled crowds of over 21,000 last year, can take a look at the latest models on offer.

Those not in the market for a new mobile home can browse through accessories such as satellite navigation devices and mini refrigerators, or can choose awnings and find out about parks across the country.

Caravan enthusiasts can also enjoy produce from a traditional farmers' market, or watch a cookery demonstration by chef Andy Gratton.

Children can be entertained at a range of Playstation ports, or can try to beat each other at Scalextric, while younger children can enjoy ball polls, plant potting and an arts and crafts area.

The show runs until Sunday and is open from 10am until 6pm, but will stay open until 9pm tonight (Friday). Adult tickets cost £8 on the door, OAPs pay £7 while children under 15 get in free. Cheaper tickets are available by booking in advance on 08701 288 288 or calling www.caravanshows.com.

A NIGHT of cycle racing with a difference is on offer at The Velodrome.

The National Cycling Centre's popular Revolution Series Three event is returning on Saturday night, with international road and track stars racing accompanied by music and lighting effects.

The event promises an evening of entertainment which will appeal to non-cycling fans as well as converts to the sport.

Doors at the Sportscity centre open at 5.30pm, with racing starting at 7pm and ending at 10.15pm. Adult tickets cost £10, with children paying £5, and family tickets - two adults and two children - costing £22. Call 0700 594 2579 or 223 2244.

YOUNGSTERS could have a hand in breaking a world record at the Trafford Centre.

Manchester-based charity Henshaws Society for Blind People is trying to get into the Guinness Book of Records for the world's largest hand print painting.

The record attempt is taking place at the Orient's main stage, and the charity needs at least 3,000 handprints on its 4,000 sq ft canvas in order to beat the current record - held by a group from Hong Kong.

Children, as well as parents, grandparents and community groups are all welcome, with each print taking a minute to place.

The charity also hopes to raise awareness for its high five campaign, hoping to raise £5m to help blind and visually impaired people across the north.

The record attempt will take place from 10am-5pm on Saturday.

ENJOY an introduction to the art of hedgelaying is being offered in Macclesfield on Sunday.

Instruction and tools are provided, but visitors are asked to wear old clothes.

The free event takes place from 10.30am-3pm. Call 01625 573 998 to confirm the location.