Can it really be that time of year again already? The countdown to the York CAMRA Beer Festival has already begun in earnest.

The ale extravaganza, supported by the Evening Press, is the highlight of the year for many dedicated beer fans and next February's event promises to be no different.

Beer boffins at the Campaign for Real Ale have already spent months plotting what brews to bring along, with dozens promised from Yorkshire brewers alone.

There's a Roman York theme too, following last year's ghostly goings-on, with the catchy slogan, "Friends, Romans, CAMRA-men, Raise me your beers!"

With tongue firmly in cheek, veteran CAMRA member Geoff Henman says: "The usual clever and amusing puns which have been the highlight of previous festivals can be expected."

He adds that the 80 or so brews on offer, including bitters, milds, porters, stouts, wheat beers and real lagers, will range in strength between three and eight per cent and alcohol by volume.

The final menu of beers will not be finalised until the very last minute, but Geoff promises some old favourites, including his own from The Wolf Brewery in East Anglia.

There will also be a festival beer carefully crafted by York Brewery's rugby loving head brewer, Andrew Whalley.

"We'll probably have around 1,500 people pass through the doors at the Priory Street Centre over the three days of the festival, but the venue is ideal for large numbers," says Geoff

"Many of the visitors will be part of the regular beer festival crowd who visit events all around the country.

"CAMRA festivals are all known for well-conditioned beer, friendly crowds and good atmosphere."

The festival sessions begin a 7pm on Thursday, February 19 and continue at noon and 7pm on Friday and Saturday. Entry is by advance ticket only, expect for the Friday lunch time period when visitors can pay on the door.

So keep your eyes on Bar Talk as we count down to February - who says there's nothing to look forward to in the long winter months?

Updated: 15:55 Friday, December 05, 2003