THURROCK Beer & Cider Festival is set to return this summer, bringing five days of beer, cider, live music and community spirit back to Grays.

The popular CAMRA Thurrock festival will take place at the Civic Hall, Blackshots Lane, from Tuesday, 2 June to Saturday, 6 June, welcoming visitors from across Thurrock, Essex and beyond.

Run entirely by volunteers, the festival has become one of the area's most anticipated annual events, combining a huge range of drinks with live entertainment and a friendly atmosphere that keeps people coming back year after year.

Festivalgoers can look forward to more than 100 beers and ciders across the week, alongside wines, meads and soft drinks, with options ranging from traditional real ales and classic ciders to modern craft favourites and key keg beers.

This year's festival artwork celebrates the iconic Bata Hotel in East Tilbury, continuing the event's tradition of showcasing Thurrock landmarks and local history through its annual branding and commemorative festival glasses.

Live music will once again play a major part in the festival, with entertainment across Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The Cockney Cowboy Band will perform on Thursday evening, while Friday night features Drunk and Hungry and local favourites The Targets Cover Band. Saturday's all-day line-up includes Mushroom Clown, The Vibe and Give or Take.

Opening times are:

Tuesday to Friday: 12pm–3pm and 6pm–11pm

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Saturday: 12pm–7pm

Admission prices are:

Tuesday to Friday lunchtime sessions: £1

Tuesday and Wednesday evenings: £2

Thursday evening: £5

Friday evening: £6

Saturday all day: £4

Card-carrying CAMRA members receive free admission at all times.

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Card payments will be accepted for entry and at the bar, while commemorative festival glasses, priced at £4 each, will be cash only.

A Thurrock Beer & Cider Festival spokesperson said: "There's something really special about seeing the hall full again each year with people enjoying great beer, live music and good company.

"The festival is completely volunteer-run and we're incredibly proud of what the team and the local community help create every summer. Whether you're a long-time real ale fan or just looking for a brilliant atmosphere and a good night out, everyone is welcome."

For more information, visit the CAMRA Thurrock Facebook page or email [email protected].