BEER lovers will be keeping it real as they raise a glass to the Queen over the Diamond Jubilee weekend.

Southampton Beer Festival opens at Southampton Guildhall on Thursday, May 31, at 6.30pm, with the last pint poured on 11pm on Saturday, June 2.

The event is the 60th of its kind in the city and is expected to draw more than 3,000 customers.

Festival organiser Rob Whatley, of the southern Hampshire branch of the Campaign for Real Ale, said: “What better way to spend the Jubilee weekend than to enjoy the great selection of beers?

"There will be beers to suit all tastes including wheat beers, IPAs, pale ales, milds, golden ales, porters, stouts, lagers and beers with added ginger and honey.

“With a host of new local beers to try, music, food, ciders and many other attractions, there is plenty to celebrate.”

As well as the best of Hampshire ale, the event will be awash with patriotic brews, such as Jubilee Ale from Hampshire’s Andwell Brewery, Diamond Reign from Castle Rock Brewery, Diamond Light from Havant Brewery and Queen of Diamonds from Hoggleys Brewery.