A REAL ale festival has unveiled its own speciality brew.

Michael Griffin, 29, who runs Durham's Hill Island Brewery, a one-man enterprise based at Fowler's Yard, in the city centre, has brewed Firkin Champion, which he calls a "a one-off, blond, hoppy beer'', for the festival at the Woodman Inn, Durham City.

The festival started yesterday and will run until Tuesday, April 29.

Beer enthusiasts will be able to taste ales brewed in all parts of the country.

A total of 30 beers will be on sale during the event - eight at a time - but Firkin Champion is the only one that will be available throughout.

Mr Griffin, who studied for a degree in applied biology at Sunderland University and has worked at the Durham Brewery, in Bowburn, struck out on his own in October.

His beers include Penny-feather Porter, named after Durham's new footbridge, Bobby's Best Bitter and Griffin's Irish Stout.

Woodman Inn landlord Paul Sidey said: "In conjunction with Camra, we have worked to feature beers that we have never had at previous festivals or seen in the region before.

"The idea is to give people a new taste and to encourage more people to try real ale.''

The festival runs during normal opening hours and admission is free. The pub may hold festivals three times a year, in the winter, spring and autumn