This week I feel obliged to highlight one of the most anticipated events in the Pendle area social calendar. Yes, the Pendle Beer Festival opens its doors today. A three-day celebration of beer, at the splendid Muni Theatre, Colne.

The festival is superbly run and organised by the dedicated volunteers from the East Lancashire branch of CAMRA. They have sourced over 90 cask ales to titillate the tastebuds.

Permit me to recommend six cask ales I will be hunting down.

AJ’s Ales(Walsall), SPA (4.2%): A peachy, tangy hop aroma leads to juicy tropical fruit and moderate citrus bitterness. Refreshing, well-balanced pale ale.

Unbound (Colne), Dark Elixir Cherry Stout (4.6%): Their original Dark Elixir Oatmeal Stout was an absolute stunner. Juicy black cherries have been added to the dark chocolate and roasted grain notes. Cannot wait to sample!

Rossendale Brewery, Sunshine (5.3%): A delightful citrus and mild spicy aroma. More citrus zest and soft spice fills the mouth, in addition to bready malt and a faint floral note. Thirst-quenching golden bitter

Orkney, Dark Island Stout (4.6%): Roasted grain and fruity aroma. Bitter chocolate, roasted coffee and dark stone fruit flavours balance to perfection. Brewing excellence guaranteed.

Bad Seed, Urban Myth (4.6%): Dominant citrus aroma. Grapefruit, lemon, floral and soft, earthy flavours identified. Agreeably pungent pale ale for the hop monsters.

Durham Brewery, Bede’s Chalice (9%): I’m sure I’ll love this strong, Belgian Triple style beer. Malty-sweetness expected from the Vienna malt base. Peach, orange and coriander spice flavours in this deep-flavoured ale.

All three days, 11am - 11pm. Entry £3 on each day. CAMRA members free entry.