Raise your glasses - Dorchester Beerex is back.

The Palmers-sponsored beer festival, which has raised more than £200,000 for local good causes since its inception in 1988, kicked off yesterday at the Corn Exchange and continues today.

Beerex spokesman Rich Gabe said after the first session yesterday: "It exceeded all our expectations, it was exceptionally busy."

Today's lunchtime session is sold out but there are still tickets available for the evening session (6.30pm-11.30pm with live music from Fluke). Tickets, which cost £10 and can be bought on the door, include a commemorative glass, two halves of beer and a colour programme which lists the full selection of drinks with tasting notes.

The popular event, which attracts drinkers from Dorset and beyond, makes a welcome return after being cancelled last year due to the pandemic.

It is hosted by West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and charity partner Dorchester Casterbridge Rotary Club.

The festival hopes to showcase 80 real ales from Dorset and beyond including the full range from sponsors Palmers. There is also a range of ciders and perries.

This year’s principle charity is the Dorchester Youth & Community Centre.