REAL-ALE enthusiasts will abandon their usual tipples this week to get a taste of more exotic beverages.

Belgian Raspberry, Rivet Catcher, Black Adder and Houblon Nouveau are among the vast array of beers on offer at Darlington's 24th Rhythm 'n' Brews Festival.

About 4,000 pints of real ale, plus traditional farmhouse ciders and bottled beers from across Europe, will be available at the event, which runs at Darlington Arts Centre from Thursday to Saturday.

The centre's rhythm and blues club will be providing a musical accompaniment to the beer tasting.

Organiser Ian Jackson said: "We will have a huge choice of beers, something for every tastebud, including people who think they don't like beer.

"The Belgian raspberry and cherry beers served from champagne bottles have to be tasted to be believed. We have scoured Britain and abroad for interesting and rare brews from the best independent brewers around."

Opening times are 6pm to 11pm on Thursday, admission £3; noon to 3pm Friday, free admission; and 6pm to 11pm, admission £4.50; Saturday 11.30am to 4pm, free admission, and 7pm to 11pm, £3.

Tickets are available from the Arts Centre on (01325) 486555 or at the door.

The festival switches to Darlington Market Place and nearby pubs for free live music on Sunday, from 1pm.