BEER connoisseurs have been visiting Darlington for the town's 21st Spring Thing folk festival.
Almost 50 draught real ales are on offer at a beer festival running as part of the event.
Eight breweries have also produced special beers for the festival, some of which have been named in honour of the Campaign for Real Ale's 25th anniversary.
Wear Valley Brewery, from Bishop Auckland, has supplied Argentum; Marston Moor, from near York, has brewed Silver Surprise; Bridgestones, from West Yorkshire, Silver Bride, and Cameron's, Hartlepool is selling 25 Monkey Mild.
A range of other beers are also on offer, including two from Ireland to mark St Patrick's Day today.
Drinkers are being asked to vote for their beer of the festival, with a prize of eight pints on offer. For the first time this year, customers can take beers home with them.
The beer festival is open today from 11.30am to 11.30pm. Admission is free and all are welcome.
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