FORMER Cherries ace Steve Fletcher will pick his top pint ahead of the fifth annual Big Bournemouth Beer Festival this weekend.

The footballer will taste local beers before the festival officially opens and then name his favourite.

This year’s event, which takes place at the BIC over the Easter weekend, features more than 200 beers and ales brewed by Southbourne Ales, Bournemouth Brewery, Dorset Brewery and more.

Last year, around 3,500 people attended the event and a record-breaking 2014 is expected.

Bournemouth Folk Club will perform live throughout the weekend, which is sponsored by Hot Rocks Restaurant and supported by 106 Jack FM.

The festival will take place on Saturday from noon until 5pm and 6.30pm until 11.30pm, and on Sunday from 3pm.

Friday tickets are already sold out.

For more information, call 0844 576 3000.