BEER and gin fans are set to descend on Helensburgh from miles around this weekend as one of the most popular events in the local calendar makes a welcome post-Covid return.

After a two-year absence, the Helensburgh Beer and Gin Festival is rocking up to the Helensburgh and Lomond Civic Centre in East Clyde Street this Friday and Saturday, May 20 and 21.

Festival-goers will be able to sample more than 40 varieties of craft ale, 10 gin cocktails, more than 20 different ciders, and rum and lager too.

There will also be a selection of street food to suit all tastes, as well as a packed line-up of live music.

The festival runs from 6pm until 11pm on Friday evening, and from 12noon until 11pm on Saturday.

Fifteen craft breweries will be represented, from as near as Alexandria to as far away as Bristol, along with eight gin distillers and more than 30 varieties of cider.

Live music over the two days of the event will include Sound Cradle, The O’Cajunals and Hot Ratz, plus a DJ set from Beano Mobile Disco.

Funds raised at the event will be used to support good causes in the Helensburgh area, with past beneficiaries having included the Gareloch RDA and the Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank.

A spokesperson for the festival said: “After two years on hold, we’re back and are looking to make this year’s festival the best one yet.”