PINTS were supped under a perfect summer’s evening as punters previewed the Southampton Beer Festival.

The 17th annual event officially opens at 11.30am today, but beer lovers were given the chance to taste what’s on offer last night.

There will be more than 90 real ales and more than 16 ciders and perries to try throughout the weekend.

The range of tipples are set to go down nicely with entertainment from Jon Walsh Blues Band tonight, and Lemongrove and Coast tomorrow.

The event, which takes place at Southampton Guildhall, will finish at 11pm tomorrow.

Tickets are available from Southampton Guildhall Box Office on 02380 632601 or at southamptonbeerfestival.org.uk.