Decent pubs get very crowded and noisy, plus it's difficult to fit many people in. A hall gives us the opportunity to do more techy presentations.

We actually started out in a pub and have evolved into present format over time. We have the hall until 10, so if you are really hardcore you can always head to the pub after, I can imagine there will be quite a few people joining you.

Out of interest, have you been to DC4420? (http://www.dc4420.org/)

It has none of the problems you describe, but it's definitely worth a visit regardless.

Nope. Probably a Tuesday vs Thursday thing.

Plus it's cheaper to buy beer buy the crate ;)

Maybe, but cost isn't everything and draught ale is better than canned ale.