Llandrindod Oktoberfest event branded a 'disgrace'

Jase Hawker, managing director at Pavilion Mid Wales, said the event had been “meticulously planned” in advance, but admitted that problems with catering had impacted on the evening.

But he defended the night overall after being contacted by the County Times, saying it was "as advertised", and that the caterers had been late and "not delivered as agreed".

“For our first attempt at this kind of event, we were reasonably happy with the overall experience although we now know we could have done some things better," Mr Hawker said.

“The reader is perfectly entitled to their opinion and we welcome feedback, whether that be positive or negative."

Ray Hopewell was one of those who attended the event, in an audience of around 60.

“Around 50 years ago I came to Llandrindod and saw a German oompah band at the Pavilion and it was one of the most fantastic nights I’ve ever had,” said Ray, 79, who came from the Stoke area to the event, as he has a cousin in the spa town.

“However, this was a total and utter disgrace from start to finish.

“I wouldn’t have rung (The County Times) if it had been only slightly disappointing. But people have asked me to ring and complain, on their behalf.”

(Image: Harriet Hunt)

Tickets to the event cost £28 with booking fees online taking Mr Hopewell's ticket cost to £32, with music provided by the Bavarian Dragons – a German-style oompah band.

The event was due to start at 7pm, but Ray said it began at 8.30pm, after which the band played two songs before the audience were invited to participate in drinking games.

The food arrived at 8.45pm, a box meal consisting of German hot dog with sauerkraut, sauces, onions, kroketten (a German croquette) and a pretzel.

Harriet Hunt said no German beer was on sale. (Image: Harriet Hunt)

Mr Hopewell, who left at 9pm, added: “When the evening eventually got underway I went and spoke to the owner, as did others. I told him it was a rip-off.

“He said there had been last-minute problems with caterers but I was told we had been provided with food and entertainment, so don’t say you’re not getting what you paid for."

Harriet Hunt, who came from Shrewsbury to attend with her sister, said there was no German beer being sold.

“It was the most ridiculous experience I’ve ever had,” she said.

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“I’m really fuming. It was so bad, awful.

“The food was a defrosted bun, an overcooked sausage and some coleslaw. It was inedible.

“We were expecting some German beer, but there was just normal lager on the bar or a can of Doombar.

“We thought ‘this can’t be our evening’. It’s actually funny because it was so bad, but it’s £30."

She demanded a refund, and will be reimbursed £8.

“I have attended other events at the Pavilion over the years and have had some great evenings,” added Ms Hunt. “This was not one of them.” 

Mr Hawker added: “We advertised there would be sing-a-longs and drinking games, of which the majority of attendees had a thoroughly enjoyable time participating in.

“The event was as advertised and we stand by that.

“The event ran at a loss of over £1,000. We don't know if it will happen again, or perhaps we should just stick to what we do best, live music.”