A new festival dedicated entirely to gin starts in Bournemouth today.

The two-day event, which claims to be the largest of its kind, will be at the Pavilion ballroom on Friday and Saturday. 

Over 100 different types of gins will be on offer, festival organisers claim, with new producers showcasing a broad variety of flavours.

The sessions run from Friday evening, from 6.30-11pm, with an afternoon and evening session on Saturday, from 12.30pm-5pm and again from 6.30pm-11pm.

Organisers say on their website: "We will be showcasing over 100 different gins including new gins, new producers and a variety of entertainment.

"You'll also be able to try our exclusive new gin, Tarquins 'Single Estate Tea' Gin, made especially for Gin Festival.

"On arrival you will be handed your Gin Festival glass (to take home) and a brochure, full of information on all the gins you can try, a little about each company and the suggested garnish."

Tokens to buy gin can be purchased at the front desk, at £5 per drink, including tonic and a fresh garnish.

The organisers added: "Throughout the event there will be live entertainment, talks from gin industry experts, food available to buy and lots of chit chat with other gin lovers.

"If you're new to gin don't worry, our friendly staff will recommend a few to get you going or tell you all about our favourites."

For more information and to buy tickets, which cost £7.50 plus the booking fee only available to residents aged 18 and over, visit ginfestival.co.uk/events.