ONE of Worcester’s most popular annual events is set to return, much to the delights of beer lovers all over the city.

Glasses will be raised and thousands of pints will be downed as the Worcester Beer, Cider and Perry festival returns to the city racecourse from Thursday, August 4 until Saturday, August 6.

Last year's event attracted more than 12,000 visitors over the three days and organisers are hoping this year's festival will be a similar success. Signs are that they will have another hit on their hands, with 90 per cent of tickets for the Friday already sold.

This year's festival will offer more than 170 ales, 200 beers and 100 ciders and perries to tickle the tastebuds.

Back in 2014 the event proved so successful that it had to close early on Saturday evening after running out of beer.

But organisers have put measures in place to ensure the same does not happen again.

This year the festival opening hours have been slightly reduced and attendance numbers strictly controlled, to ensure there is enough drink for everyone.

Festival organisers are appealing for volunteers ahead of the event, with stewards, bar staff and entrance personal all required.

Volunteers will be given food, drink vouchers and a free t-shirt in return for their help and people can sign up online to get involved.

Live music will be performed on each of the three days including Tinks, Jay & Eli on Thursday before Daddies Girls, Mike Skilbeck, Underground Ocean, and Come Together on Friday and on Saturday Davey Rocks, Beauty and the Beast, Paul Winstanley, The Outcast.

Headlining the musical offering is local band Fury, whose members were all born and bred in the city and all belong to Camra.

The Worcester CAMRA Beer Festival will be open on Thursday from 5pm to 11pm, Friday from noon to 11pm and Saturday from noon until 10pm.

Admission costs £6 on Thursday, £9 on Friday £9 and £6 on Saturday. Entry on Friday is by advance tickets only

CAMRA members receive £2 of drink tokens at the token desk on production of a valid membership card.

Admission prices include a souvenir glass and programme. For tickets visit worcesterbeerfest.org.uk.