Raising a glass to yet another'˜ale and hearty' beer festival

The city’s Guildhall was packed to the rafters over the weekend for the popular occasion, now in its third year.

More than 120 cask ales, as well as craft lagers and ciders from across the region, were served up to guests.

Plus there was a prosecco bar made up for those who didn’t fancy a beer and wanted to try something else.

And there was a lively entertainment programme to keep everyone in good spirits.

Organisers say it was a huge success as about 3,000 people came through the doors, meaning the event was close to a sell-out.

And most of the beer was guzzled by the time the occasion – in its third year – drew to a close.

Friday night saw visitors treated to performances from the likes of The Racketeers, Strumpet Town and The Flicks.

Then on Saturday, there was live music from Mark Morriss, the singer from The Bluetones, and other acts.

The final session was wrapped up with a gig by The Silver Beatles.

Festival co-organiser Ben Miles, who is part of the team behind this year’s eagerly-anticipated Victorious Festival across Southsea Common, said: ‘There was a very good turnout, we were really pleased.

‘Everyone seemed to have a good time.

‘At the end there were only a few beers left, but the spread of beers was great.

Ben added: ‘We ran out of a few bits right at the end of the last session, but everything pretty much lasted until the end which was great.

‘The live line-up was fantastic.’