APUB is getting into the festive spirit with some Christmas ales.

The Purple Dog in Eld Lane, Colchester, has launched its winter ale festival, whichwill run until Sunday.

A total of 15 different ales will be served during the festival and Campaign for Real Ale members get ten per cent off the price.

Pub manager Nick Hunt said: “All the regulars have been trying all the new ales and the Campaign for Real Ale members are happy.

“It’s been really good so far and we’re hoping it will get busier over the weekend.

“We take pride in our ales.

“The ale market has gone crazy in the past few years and we want to make sure we are part of that.”

The pub will also be hosting its monthly charity quiz on Monday, January 5.