THE Great Yarmouth Beer and Cider Festival has provided a notable addition to the town's calendar of events.Now in its third year, drinkers should be making a date in their diaries for the festival that runs from May 21 to 24.

THE Great Yarmouth Beer and Cider Festival has provided a notable addition to the town's calendar of events.

Now in its third year, drinkers should be making a date in their diaries for the festival that runs from May 21 to 24.

For the first time the event, held over the Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend will start on Thursday evening.

Organised by the town' award-winning Blackfriars Brewery, up to 2,000 real ale enthusiasts are expected to attend the three day festival.

Held at the town's historic Priory Centre, it is a showcase for the best of the region's small, independent beer and cider producers.

Blackfriars owner Bill Russell is hoping this year's festival will be the best yet, with more than 100 local brews on tap.

He said: “We want the festival to have a distinct identity - it is very much a local event for local people.

“It is important to build on the success of the previous festivals, we already have musicians booked and are looking to widen the range of entertainment.

“The Saturday night has seen people turning up in fancy dress so this year we are going to have a prize for the best costume.

“Even in these difficult times, with so many pubs closing, there is a real thirst for locally produced beers and is exciting to be part of the real ale renaissance.”

It has been another memorable year for Blackfriars with the opening of a new brewery, shop and visitor centre close to the seafront on Main Cross Road.

Drinkers will be able to savour Blackfriars latest tipples Volunteer and Harbour Lights at this year's festival.

The Mercury is once again proudly sponsoring the Great Yarmouth Beer Festival. Advance tickets will be exclusively available through the paper at �1 less than on the door.

The ticket order form will be printed shortly.