REAL ale enthusiasts are toasting the return of a beer festival, revived by a city publican who is one of their own.

The Durham branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) is supporting the resurrected event, at the Woodman Inn, from Friday to Sunday.

It has been re-introduced by licensee Sean Quilty, who took over the Gilesgate watering hole with wife Jane, last year.

Following a refurbishment, including a garden makeover at the rear of the premises, Mr Quilty, a Durham Camra member, set about re-staging the Woodman’s once popular in-house festival.

“I’m told it took place regularly a number of years ago, but dropped off in the early 2000s,” said Mr Quilty, who has been steeped in the pub trade for much of his life.

“I’m part of Camra in Durham and they have helped us out enormously.

“We’ve got up to 20 real ales and ciders, some local but others from across the country.

“Now, all we could do with is some good weather.”

Ticket offers, £10 for a day or £25 for the weekend, guarantee savings on all drinks purchased, with details by email via info@woodmaninn.co.uk, or by ringing 0191-680 8317.