The successful return of last year's Faversham Hop Festival after a Covid-enforced hiatus has convinced organisers to forge ahead with the event in 2023.

The historic celebration of ale, food and music, which dates back more than 30 years, is scheduled for the first weekend of September.

And unlike last year's festival, which was in doubt as the committee fought to get enough funding, organisers say they now have the confidence to go full steam ahead, with many key sponsors already on board.

Colin Jones, who is director of Community Heritage Events, says it cost £100,000 to put on the event but it provides a huge economic boost to the town.

He is welcoming the support of Shepherd Neame, Bridger’s Law, Edward Vinson Limited and Keith’s Motors, who have already signed up as sponsors, but is looking for more and needs to raise £5,000 from a public appeal.

The town's brewer has backed the festival since it was first launched 33 years ago and will again be sponsoring the main stage.

Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said: "The Faversham Hop Festival is a celebration of Kent’s heritage, attracting thousands of visitors, and also providing a significant economic boost to our pubs, retailers and town as a whole.

"We were delighted to see it back last year, bringing people together again, and we very much look forward to joining the celebrations again in 2023."

Mr Neame says festival goers can expect live music across four stages and in pubs throughout the town, along with great food and drink, a family fun area, stalls, parades, exhibitions and other activities.

Mr Jones added: "We are delighted to announce preparations for Hop Fest 2023 are well and truly underway.

"But much needs to be done not least in raising the necessary funds to deliver an event which brings the town to life, is free for all to enjoy but which comes at a considerable cost.

"Now we need to ask our supporters in Faversham and beyond to help.

"We appreciate this may be difficult in the current economic climate but we hope people will contribute what you can afford."

Mr Jones is asking those who can donate to go to the www.favershamhopfestival.org website ahead of the event on September 2 and 3.

He added: "We will also be approaching other Faversham businesses to invest in an event which will be a huge boost to trading.

"Businesses can contact us on 01795 700132 or email marketing@favershamhopfestival.org to discuss sponsorship opportunities."

Applications for stalls and the Abbey School camp site are now open.