CONNOISSEURS will be raising a glass to a North Yorkshire town next month when it holds its second beer festival.

Richmond's Market Hall celebrates the art of brewing from Friday, October 17, when 25 real ales will be available.

The Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Stuart Parsons, said: "We have a veritable paradise in store. Our first real ale festival last year was a huge success and has spurred us on to do greater things for 2003.

"This year will be bigger, better and open longer."

This year's event, which runs until Sunday, October 19, also includes musical entertainment, with acoustic performances of folk and jazz. Admission is free.