REAL ale fans downed thousands of pints when Southampton's annual beer festival returned for the eighth year.

Around 3,000 thirsty punters flocked to the Guildhall for the popular event.

They enjoyed a huge range of 90 draught beers and a host of entertainment, including the Silver Beatles who wound down the extravaganza with a performance on Saturday night.

Visitors dug deep for a good cause with money raised from raffles and food stalls going towards the Spirit of Normandy Trust, which supports ex-servicemen and their dependants.

Among the breweries raising a glass at the three-day event was Cheriton Brewhouse, which scooped the best brewed beer in Hampshire award.

The company's 3.8 per cent bitter also claimed the title three years ago.

Rob Whatley, from organisers Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), hailed the event a huge success.

"This year has been bigger than ever and everyone seems to have enjoyed it," he said.

"We had to order more beer and more cider to make sure there was enough to go round for everyone.

"It has been very successful."