BEER lovers from all over the country have been descending on a Worcestershire town, in search of the perfect pint.

Bewdley's second real ale festival has started in fine fashion with more than 250 people already trying out the crme de la creme of British beer.

Tim Wilkins, one of the festival's organisers, hailed the start of the four-day event a great success.

"People seem to be really enjoying themselves and the great weather for the opening day has been just what we wanted, " he said.

Mr Wilkins, a self-confessed disciple of the hop, said he had been impressed with the dedication some ale followers had shown.

"We've had visitors from Devon and Essex and plenty of other places besides," he said. "Word has spread well."

There are more than 40 cask ales on display, with Teme Valley Dark Stranger proving a wow with the tipplers.

"It's premiering here and seems to be going down very well," added Mr Wilkins. "Some might even say too well."

The event is open at St George's Hall small car park and runs until 11pm on Monday. Admission is £3.