Former Tigers and England under-21 player Matt Hampson is to open Hinckley beer festival on Thursday.

Matt, who was left paralysed after a training ground injury, will perform the opening ceremony at 5pm at the Atkins Building, the event's new venue.

Festival spokesman Richard Lewin said one of the beers on offer would be Dear Boy, brewed in honour of one of the event's founder members, Steve Colbourne, who died recently.

A total of 60 beers will be available, along with ciders and perries. The event runs from 5pm to 11pm on Thursday, and from noon to 11pm on Friday and Saturday. Entry costs £2 but is free to Campaign for Real Ale and National Union of Students members.