A THRIVING Rochford microbrewery is planning its first ever Easter beer festival, letting punters “blow off steam” over the weekend as it highlights independent traders.

Black Box Brewery, in Aviation Way, Rochford, is inspired by Southend Airport just a stone’s throw away.

It offers a range of aviation-inspired beers, such as porter Bird Strike, amber ale Landing Gear and extra-strength bitter Lost Luggage.

Echo: The Black Box team – made up of Chris Barrow, Tom Ryan, Mark Dane and Mike Westley.The Black Box team – made up of Chris Barrow, Tom Ryan, Mark Dane and Mike Westley. (Image: Black Box)

The brewery’s tap room is also fast building a reputation as a community favourite.

From Good Friday, March 29, until Saturday, March 30, it will host businesses from throughout Essex for a free festival. Each day’s activities will run from 12 noon until 10pm.

Founding partner Mark Dane, 71, has urged beer lovers from across the county to sample the beers and food on offer.

He said: “Come and support local businesses and have some fun.”

Echo: The brewery in Aviation Way, Rochford, is set to welcome up to 200 people.The brewery in Aviation Way, Rochford, is set to welcome up to 200 people. (Image: Ben Shahrabi)

There will be two live bands from Leigh performing over the two days, Grand Reunion – named after the Grand Hotel – and One Touch Too Much.

Food will be on offer throughout the weekend, including a barbeque hosted by the Lounge Club next door, along with the Hockley-based Brick Lane Bagel Company.

Echo: Sampling the goods - master brewer Mike Westley and co-founder Mark Dane.Sampling the goods - master brewer Mike Westley and co-founder Mark Dane. (Image: Black Box)

Four Essex microbreweries will be represented, including Black Box, Wibblers from Southminster, Buffoons from Canewdon, and Crouch Vale in Burnham.

Co-founder Chris Barrow, 45, said: “This event is for local beer enthusiasts who want to try some great beer and listen to a decent band.

“We’re hoping to welcome around 150 to 200 people per day, but we want to look after as many as we can. The more, the merrier.

“People can get a bit bored over the Easter weekend. What better way to spend some time off than to blow off a bit of steam with a couple of pints?"

“It’s mainly to keep blokes out of B&Q, because Easter always seems to be a DIY weekend,” he joked.

Chris says the brewery is starting to gain traction.

He added: “We’re getting our name out there. We’re appearing in more local pubs, like the Punch Bowl in Paglesham and the Shepherd and Dog in Ballards Gore.”