THE big Bent and Bongs Beer Bash bash starts at Atherton's Formby Hall at 6pm on Thursday, January 31, and runs through to February 2.

Since the festival began, Atherton and Tyldesley Round Tablers have raised more than £100,000 for good causes.

For the past two years, charities looking after critically sick children have been the main beneficiaries, but this year, the Parkinson's Disease Society will be the main recipient as members rally in support of Parkinson's sufferer John Firth.

Table spokesman Paul Barber said: "Members were recently saddened to hear of John's diagnosis.

"He is still a member of the Atherton and Tyldesley 41 Club, but for the past two years, has been getting progressively worse from the effects of the disease.

"He recently decided to tell friends about his diagnosis and to ask for help, not for himself, but for the Parkinson's Society.

"As a result, we decided to support it as our main charity, along with other local charities and good causes.

"By supporting the beer festival this year, people will be supporting this very worthwhile organisation.

"In fact, people don't need to say they're popping out for a pint, they can say they are going to help the Parkinson's Disease Society."

Festival organisers are once again appealing for sponsors.

Its success very much depends on backing from local businesses, and any company that would like to see its name above a barrel can send for a package. They are available from £85, which includes 10 free entrance tickets.

This year's opening hours and prices are Thursday, January 31, 6pm to 11pm, £3.50; Friday, February 1, 6pm to 11pm £4.50, Saturday, February 2, 12pm to 4pm £3, 7pm to 11pm £3.50.

Sessions include food and live entertainment.

Anyone wishing to support the event should contact Steve Kirkham on 07971 856286.

Two free entry tickets to this year's festival are on offer to readers. All you have to do is answer correctly where this year's Bent and Bongs beer bash is being staged?

Written answers should be sent to: Beer Bash Quiz, Editorial Department, Leigh Journal, 44/46 Railway Road, Leigh, WN7 4AT.