THE first Darwen real ale and cider festival kicks off at the end of the month.

The festival has been funded by Darwen Town Council and organised by chairman of the town’s Bar U scheme, Adam Hulme.

It will take place over 10 days, from Friday, November 30, to December Sunday, December 9.

Fifteen pubs have signed up to take part.

They are The Anchor, Hollins Grove Conservative Club, The Engineers, The Alexandra, The British Queen, The Millstone, The Bridgewater, Bridge Street Sports and Social Club, Number 39 Hopstar Brewery Tap, The Belgrave, The Black Horse, The Spinners, The Swan, The Park and The Greenfield.

Maps showing the location of all pubs are available from any of the pubs taking part.

On the back of the map is a space to get a stamp after buying a pint in each pub.

Once 10 stamps are collected, a free T-shirt can be claimed.

Local ales from Darwen brewers Hopstar, Fallon’s and Jubilee Tower will be available.