Thousands are expected at the annual three-day music and beer festival at the White Bear Hotel, Masham, from Friday, June 27. As well as Theakston ales, a further 30 beers are available from breweries nationwide together with a wide range of musical entertainment playing a range of differing styles, including jazz, blues and folk. General manager Sue Thomas said: "With the Tour de France passing through the town just a week later, the beer festival is a great opportunity for Masham to start its party early.”