THURROCK'S annual beer and cider festival got underway today (Tuesday, 6 June) when borough mayor Cllr Sue Little pulled the first pint.

The festival at the Civic Hall, Blackshots, runs until Saturday and has a range of entertainment on offer later in the week as well as a choice of a wide variety of beers, ciders and perrys.

The festival is supported by sponsors the Wharf Pub in Grays - thewharfgrays – and VK Electrical services limited - Vkelectricalservicesltd.

Simon Harrison and Cllr Sue Little.

Organiser Simon Harrison and a team of volunteers who have spent the past 48 hours getting the venue ready by laying flooring and building the scaffolding to hold the many kegs and counters, welcomed the mayor and said he and team were looking forward to a memorable week.