DRINK up thy cider – or ale – Wykefest is back.

The Wyke Smugglers pub in Wyke Regis, Weymouth, is once again hosting the popular three-day beer festival supporting Dorset children’s hospice Julia’s House.

The fun starts today from 5pm and goes on until Sunday with plenty of real ales and ciders to choose from as well as live music, a barbecue and raffle.

Wykefest has been resurrected by pub landlord Rhos Thompson who wanted to continue the theme of showcasing local and regional breweries as well as supporting a good cause.

It is supported by the West Dorset Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), whose members man the bar, and is sponsored by the Dorset Brewing Company. This weekend will be the third Wykefest at the Smugglers.

In previous years it was organised by Value House and held in the fields behind the store in Mandeville Road.

While the event is now on a smaller scale, much use is made of the pub’s spacious indoor and outdoor areas.

Mr Thompson said while the event has a different feel, it is being recognised as a valued festival, showcasing South West ales in conjunction with the Society of Independent Brewers.

Twenty one real ales, including beers from Branscombe Vale Brewery, Quantock Brewery and DBC, will be available, together with 16 ciders.

As well as today’s evening session it runs all day tomorrow and Sunday with free admission. The pub is served by Service 1 buses to Portland.

There will be live music all weekend including Tequila Mockingbird this evening, Peacock Suit tomorrow evening and Identikit on Sunday afternoon. The event will end with a music quiz.

Mr Thompson said: “We raised £3,500 for Julia’s House last year so we’re hoping to top that.

“I’d encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun and sample some tremendous ales and ciders for a good cause.

“I’m passionate about supporting small, independent breweries open and events like this help to showcase their beers.”