THIRSTY visitors sank more than 3,000 pints this Bank Holiday weekend, as they raised a glass (or two) to celebrate 10 years of Haverfordwest Beer and Cider Festival.

The “biggest and best” year in the festival’s decade-long history, the event drew in around 2,000 visitors to Haverfordwest Castle across Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Ales, bitters and porters from some of Pembrokeshire and Wales’ finest breweries were on the menu, alongside delicious craft ciders and – new for 2016 – artisan gins from Dà Mhìle.

From Bragdy Twt Lol's Crazy Peacock amber ale to Caffle's Catchypole, Tenby Brewing Company's thirst-quenching West Coast Rocks malt, and Gethin's award-winning Cyder, all palates were catered for.

Live music from Kristofer Sanders, Hideaway Trio, and festival favourites Lightship among others made for a vibrant atmosphere, and a storming ska set from Chalk Outlines provided an energetic finale to the weekend.

Tasty treats were provided by Trehale farm and Jar of Hearts, while youngsters enjoyed the facepainting on offer.

With visitors from across the UK making a special trip to attend, and holidaymakers from Germany and Italy also popping in for a pint, festival co-ordinator Cicely Blacklaw-Jones said 2016 had proven to be the most successful event to date.

“The castle is a fantastic location, and it’s great to be able to make the most of it and enjoy the glorious weather,” she said.

“Every year is a huge undertaking, but Haverfordwest is blessed with such a strong community spirit, and people really come out in force to support local events.

“A big thank you goes to our team of incredible volunteers, Joe Griffin for stepping in and providing us with sound equipment for the weekend, and our biggest sponsors MPH and Pembrokeshire Scaffolding – without whom we couldn’t have pulled it off.”

Ed Lewis, from Haverfordwest, said: “It’s been a great weekend, I would love to see more events like this in Haverfordwest.”

Cllr Tom Tudor, County Councillor for the Castle Ward, said: "Well done to the organisers of Haverfordwest 2016 Beer and Cider Festival.

"Great use of the Castle, which I regard as one of the jewels in the crown for Haverfordwest.”