TICKETS have gone on sale for one of the region’s biggest annual consumer shows.

Hampshire’s OctoberFest takes place from October 9-11 at Basingstoke Cricket and Sports Ground and is expected to attract some 10,000 visitors.

There will be over 120 beers and ciders showcased, alongside craft and food producers, including ales from local manufacturer Upham Brewery – who are the headline sponsors for the second consecutive year.

The event coincides with the 2015 IRB Rugby World Cup, which will see a range of rugby-themed mini-events.

On the Sunday, coaches from London Irish RFC – also sponsored by Upham – will stage two rugby master classes for 60 local youngsters, aged nine-11 and 12-15.

The coaches will be joined by players from the first team who will be on hand to give expert advice to run the youngsters through various rugby drills.

The Upham Marquee will be transformed into a rugby zone, where all the home nation games across the OctoberFest weekend will be televised on a large screen. There will also be rugby-themed quizzes in the marquee, as well as a ‘have-a-go’ scrum to raise money for Naomi House and Jacksplace.

Ian Smith, director of the Wessex Heritage Trust and organiser of the festival, said: “This will be our biggest event yet - we have more activities for families, including tethered hot air balloon rides (subject to weather), inflatables, go karts and a host more. We will have some great entertainment both inside and outside the marquees, and we’ve already received requests for tickets. Ticket prices have come down in price overall with free entry for children under 16 on the Sunday as long as they are accompanied by a fee paying adult.” Adult tickets are £7.75 in advance online or £9 on the day or night for Friday and Saturday. Sunday adult tickets are £5 in advance.

A weekend rover ticket costs £15 and includes entrance for the Works Night Out, Saturday and Sunday. Visit anvilarts.org.uk or hampshireoctoberfest.org.uk for more information, or call the box office on 01256 844244.