Octoberfest celebration at LO's Coffee Shop, Pimperne

LO's Coffee Shop and Bar, based on Down Road in Pimperne, near Blandford, was transformed into a vibrant German beer hall to celebrate a popular annual festival. 

Octoberfest started in Bavaria in the early 1800s and has since become a cherished tradition celebrated around the world.

Laurie Griffin, owner of LO's Coffee Shop with staff at Octoberfest celebration (Image: Laurie Griffin) Laurie Griffin, owner of the café, said she wanted to make the event as authentic as possible in honour of regular customer, Steve Gallivan, who previously lived in the country. 

He said: "Having spent 10 years in Germany and sampled all it had to offer, I was excited when I received an invite to an Octoberfest themed event. The atmosphere was friendly, fun and full of smiles and laughter, just what we needed after the last few days of rain.

"With the weather holding out for the night it turned out to be an event full of laughter, fun and new friendships to rival any that I have had in Bavaria itself.

Steve Gallivan at Octoberfest celebration (Image: Laurie Griffin) "A huge well done to Laurie and her amazing team that absolutely smashed the night and gave everyone an evening to remember. This is an event that needs to be repeated and I can’t wait for the next one there."

More than 100 people turned up on the night, with some travelling over from Bournemouth and Southampton. 

A selection of German beers like Dortmunder were on offer as well as traditional Bratwurst sausages and Frikadellen - a type of German meatballs. 

There was also live entertainment from the local brass band, Stour Valley Band. 

Live music from Stour Valley Band (Image: Laure Griffin) Laurie Griffiths opened the coffee shop eighteen months ago. It has since become a favourite spot among village residents, hosting many charity events and quiz nights. 

She hopes to continue hosting lively events like this to become a proper community hub. 

Laurie added: "We always listen to the customers and want to bring the community together so we decided to put on a special event.

Crowds enjoying Octoberfest at LO's Coffee Shop (Image: Laure Griffin) “The atmosphere was really lively. There was lots of laughter, fun and everyone was cheering.

"Something like this was definitely needed in the village area. This event had a nice community feel to it which we hope to carry forward for future events."