THIRSTY drinkers were out in force as this year's Worcester Beer Festival got underway.

A queue of beer lovers assembled outside Worcester Racecourse shortly before 5pm this afternoon as the three-day spectacular got underway.

Matthew Skillbeck, one of the organisers, said: "Over the three days we are expecting 12,000 people.

"There are 170 varieties of ales, 120 ciders and perries to choose from.

"There are quite a few new ones this year, and the usual competitions will be running as well.

"We are also trying to encourage youngsters to join up to CAMRA, and get involved in organising the event."

Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Paul Denham, opened the festival and poured the first pint.

Cllr Denham said: "This event has become a real fixture in the calender in the 17 years it has been running.

"I'm a CAMRA member myself. We must recognise it wouldn't be possible without the army of CAMRA volunteers behind the scenes.

"It just gets bigger and bigger every year."

Simon O'Rourke, from Worcester, was one of the first served.

"This is my ninth year in a row," he said.

"You have so many options with the beer and cider.

"I've got the next few days here. I'm looking forward to it - it has always been a good atmosphere, great people and great drinks."

Michael Pate, from Whittington, added: "We try different days each year, so thought we would try the Thursday night.

"You always bump into people you have not seen for a while.

"We always like the social side."

As well as the drinks, a variety of refreshment are on sale including Mexican food, sandwiches, fish and chips, burgers and ice creams.

Various performers will also be taking to a stage set up at the festival entertaining revellers. Among the acts performing are Daddies Girl, Come Together, Jennifer Ludlow, Underground Ocean and The Fury.

Organisers say all tickets for tomorrow, (Friday) have sold out, and there is no pay on the door option.

But tickets are still available for Saturday, which can be purchased online by visiting worcesterbeerfest.org.uk.