The pints was flowing over the weekend as a popular festival returned to Dorchester.

The Borough Gardens were heaving as crowds flocked to enjoy the dry weather at the fourth annual Dorchester Cider Festival.

Hosted by the Round Table, the annual event saw the gardens lined with stalls serving up the South West's finest apple-based beverages.

This year, ten different cider producers from the region, including, West Milton Cider, Bridge Farm and Twisted Cider were serving up a variety of cider, perry and scrumpy for guests to sample.

Round Table chairman, Simon Slade said the organisation "felt very lucky to have had another successful year."

"Last year we had peaks and troughs of business throughout the day but this year is was constant," Mr Slade said. "We are absolutely chuffed it went so well - I think now we are in our fourth year we've got a bit slicker in terms of organisation and it was brilliant to see so many people there."

The event raises money for charities which benefit the DT1 and DT2 area and Mr Slade said this year's festival had already raised well over £10,000 with money still rolling in.

"For just one day it's incredible," he said.

Mr Slade added preparations were already underway for next year's fetival

Revellers also enjoyed an array of live music to keep people entertained throughout the afternoon and into the evening including performances by Danny Adams, the Leggomen and The Skimmity Hitchers.

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Dorchester, David Taylor said: "It's absolutely packed out. Thousands have come out to once again support the Round Table as they deliver another fantastic festival which will benefit not only Dorchester but the whole of Dorset.

"People have come from all over the country and my heart and soul goes out to all of them for supporting us. I'm very proud of this beautiful town."

Rosie and Jim Mussenden from Weymouth have been to the festival for the last three years.

"It's got a great ambience," Rosie said. "The cider's good and what a fantastic way to raise funds for charity."

Claire Joiner from Weymouth, who headed to the festival with friends, said the 'relaxed and happy' atmosphere was the best part of the day.

She said: "It's a very chilled out event. The live music's great and there's a nice atmosphere. You can't beat sitting on the grass and having a cider."