Darlington'S mayor has become the 200th member of a real ale organisation, to mark the start of the town's Rhythm and Brews Festival.

Councillor Isobel Hartley became a member of Darlington's branch of Camra (the Campaign for Real Ale) and launched the festival at the town's arts centre.

The festival runs until Sunday and will feature a variety of bands and beer.

Bands playing at the Arts Centre include Outside In, Eddie Walker, Synergy, Citizen Kane and Amor.

The Eastside Torpedoes, The Nimmo Brothers, Eugene and Hideaway Bridges can all be seen free on Sunday in the Market Square, with other groups performing in town centre pubs.

Camra organisers are promising to have the biggest range of real ales, perries and ciders from all corners of the UK.

The Camra bar at the arts centre will open to the public on Thursday, at 6pm. For ticket information call (01325) 486555.