Hundreds of drinkers raised a glass as Southampton welcomed its first rum festival.

Organised by The Rum Festival and Clint Stephens, hundreds descended on to Southampton’s Guildhall to take in the tastes of the Caribbean, South American and the USA.

The largest collection of rums in the city welcomed hundreds over the afternoon and evening sessions, with live reggae music keeping people in the spirit.

Clint, who organised the event said: “We’re touring round the country and this is our first stop in Southampton. Rum is exciting, there’s craft rums and more distinct tastes, as we’re used to gin festivals.

“Rum seems to capture the excitement of people more, and that’s what we want to see. Does Southampton know its rum? We’ve had a mix of people asking more detailed questions, and some just here for a good time.”

Drinkers also took in the cocktail making demonstrations, with the event having a whole Caribbean beach party theme.

Fin Magee, who works for Rum Festivals, said: “It’s been a wonderful event, everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves and they’ve all been well behaved!

“Some people have come down because they know their rum, and others are just enjoying it.”

Seven hundred people visited the festival in the evening session, enjoying the carnival atmosphere.

Joseph Hand, 23, lives in the city centre, and praised the festival for bringing something different to Southampton.

Joseph, a hospital worker, said: “It’s fantastic, what a great way to bring a new taste to the city, and it’s something totally different. Rum is my drink of choice and some of these I’ve not heard of, I think there’s something like 100 different rums.

“I’ve had a few old favourites too, and I’m looking forward to it coming back in the future.”