BOOZERS and beer lovers on Saturday flocked to Steam for the final day of the 30th Swindon CAMRA Beer Festival.

And with more than 125 different ales and 32 ciders to choose from, festivalgoers were certainly not disappointed.

Starting from Thursday and finishing late Saturday night, the festival, hosted by the Swindon and North Wiltshire branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), offered punters beers with such quirky names as Bucket of Blood, Birdman, Fall’s Over, Tally Ho and The Fat Controller.

One ale, Cerberus, is named after the three-headed dog said to have guarded the gateway to the underworld in ancient Greek mythology.

CAMRA member Kevin Galton said: “The principle behind the Campaign for Real Ale is to support traditional British casks ales. It’s about trying to keep as many pubs open as possible and giving people access to quality ale.

“At these festivals we raise money for the organisation and present a wide variety of beer and cider.”

This year also marks the 175th anniversary of the Swindon Railway Works, so organisers decided to add a distinct railway theme to this year’s festivities.

“So far we seem to have done very well,” said Kevin. “The festival is always popular and we have had plenty of people come through the doors this year.”

Local bands kept revellers entertained and the pumps were rarely afforded a moments rest.

Trevor Ansbro, 58, who had come all the way from North Oxfordshire to attend the festival, said: “It is such a wonderful opportunity to sample a wide range of beers.

“I’ve supported the Campaign for Real Ale for many years and I think they do a wonderful job of bringing all these interesting beers to a wider audience.

“I intend to stick around for the music later on and I have a few more ales to sample yet.”

Seasoned festivalgoers Stewart and Collette Shaw, from West Swindon, thought the event a huge success.

"It has been brilliant, as always. We'll certainly be back next year," said Collette.

Kevin added: “We would like to say a big thank you to everyone at Steam for helping us put on the event.”

For more information on Swindon CAMRA, visit their website on www.swindon.camra.org.uk.