Clock ticks down to return of Portsmouth Christmas beer bash

The occasion, laid on by the organisers of the city’s Victorious Festival, returns on Friday to the Guildhall.

Hundreds of cask ales will run through the taps as festive fever sets in.

Plenty is set to be on offer to keep everyone entertained; including giant pub games, a cider bar complete with mulled cider and a range of grub to go with your pint.

Event officials say the beer spectacle is the perfect occasion for work parties, Christmas celebrations, or fun with friends and family – and tickets are still up for grabs.

Proceeds will be raised for The Thunder Foundation, set up in 2012 by Raad Swais to raise awareness of the daily struggles which some of the poorest children in Kenya face in order to survive.

Beers from across the country will be showcased, including ales from Portsmouth’s Irving and Co Brewery.

Entertainment from Le Freak, Smiley Campbell Band, The Aim and Richard Morris will come during tomorrow’s evening session, taking place from 6pm to 11pm.

The festival returns on Saturday from midday to 5pm, and will see The Fliks, Strumdiddlyumptious, John Adams and Marley Blandford entertain crowds.

The final session that evening from 6pm to 11pm will see tribute act Fleetingwood Mac, Steel Strum, Dirty Diesel Outlaw Orchestra and Winters Hill grace the stage.

Tickets are priced at £10.50 – plus a £1.75 booking fee– per person, per session.

The ticket includes a souvenir glass, programme and a beer. Visit pompeybeerfestival.co.uk