A PAIR of dog-loving landlords are preparing to hold a charity beer and cider festival later this month.

Claire Carson and her partner Ian Latimer opened the Golden Cross in Harvington, near Evesham, in April 2015.

To celebrate the two year anniversary, the duo are holding a three day festival from Saturday, April 29, to Monday May 1 – featuring an array of beers and ciders from local breweries.

The celebrations have canine twist, as money will be raised for the Dogs Trust Evesham – while two of the beers on offer are inspired by their much-loved pet dog Paddy, and Miss Carson's mum's dog Patsy.

Both dogs were adopted from the Wickhamford-based Dogs Trust, and their special beers are called Paddy's Pint – a deep golden beer – and Patsy's Prime, which is a light blonde ale.

Mr Latimer, landlord, said: "We shall be fund raising for the Evesham Dog's Trust all through the weekend.

"Paddy and Patsy are both wonderful dogs. They are the very best of friends and really look after each other.

"Considering their very different backgrounds, it's incredible that their lives have blended so well and we feel that we are really lucky to have them.

"The Golden Cross is a dog friendly pub and many of our four legged friends bring their owners with them for a cheeky pint and our customers love Paddy and Patsy as well."

Miss Carson, licensee and landlady, added: "We try very hard to showcase as much local produce as possible through our restaurant and felt that this was a really good opportunity to bring brewers to the fore.

"Visitors to the festival will be able to taste drinks that they might otherwise not have the opportunity to try."

Alongside the beer and cider on offer, there will be plenty of entertainment across the weekend with live music on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

And for younger visitors there will be face painting on Saturday afternoon and garden games throughout the weekend, and a barbecue on Monday too.

For more information about the festival call 01386 871900.