One of Preston’s most popular drinking events is returning during May – and advance tickets are being introduced.

The Continental says due to its popularity they are capping the number of guests in the festival grounds at the South Meadow Lane pub.

Thousands of ale fans head for the pub for the event now in its 17th incarnation.

Advance ticket are being sold if you want to guarantee a place during the four-day event.

More than 200 ales, ciders, craft beers, perrys and specialists beers are on offer with two beer halls as well as outside seating.

Food comes from the smokehouse chefs at The Ferret as well as giving more vegan and veggie options.

A specialist keg and beer bar is also planned giving space tp emerging craft keg brewers and the beer hall has new and improved seating areas.

Read more: A beer festival in Preston might be off this year

Advance tickets are £3 for Thursday (11 May), £4 for Friday (12 May) or Saturday (13 May) and it is free for Sunday (14 May) – with booking early reducing prices by £1.

A discount of £1 for CAMRA members or students is applied – but only if the tickets are bought from behind the bar at the Conti.

There’s also a weekend ticket priced at £8 for those who plan to go each day.

Tickest are available online via Skiddle or by calling 01772499425.