A LOCAL brewery has given its backing to the Richmond Ale Festival.

T&R Theakston, of Masham, is sponsoring live music at the town hall event, from October 15 to 17.

The Campaign for Real Ale festival will feature about 20 different beers from smaller breweries. Live music will be provided by Richmond folk group the Back Room Boys, plus the festival's first-ever jam session with the Town Hall Jammers and 50s and 60s hits from Just Gerry.

Organiser Vince Rutland said: "Theakston's support is a tremendous boost for the ale festival. It's meant that we can put a programme of great music on throughout the event, and with good ale, good music and a wonderful venue, we're set for a great time."