THE 13th Beer R&B Festival runs from Friday, October 8 to Sunday, October 10.

The programme includes a band formed from a meeting at the festival two years ago. The Walkhards began when bassist Bert Bond and guitarist and singer Paddy Blight got up together at the Sunday jam session in 2008. They perform at the Mariners’ Hall on the Friday, 8.30pm for 9pm.

Festival organiser Shelia Riley said: “Bert comes from a Beer family, he was brought up in Windsor but came back to Exeter, so he’s come back to his roots.”

Sam Kelly’s Stationhouse completes the Friday line-up. Sam has been voted Britain’s best Blues drummer several time, and will be accompanied on keyboards and vocals by Paul Jobson.

Sheila said: “There are a few numbers both bands have in their repertoire so I wouldn’t be surprised if they join forces at some point in the evening.”

On the Saturday at 1.30pm, The Phil Astles Band will perform at Beer Club.

Sheila said: “Phil has quite a unique style, and varied influences from T Bone Walker to some much younger players.”

Saturday evening sees the return of a couple of festival favourites at the Mariners’ Hall. The Jives’ high energy workings of traditional blues will provide the perfect platform for Robin Bibi. Exclusively for the festival, Robin will focus on his versions of Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac songs.

Anyone can play at the jam session on Sunday at Beer Club at 1.30pm.

Sheila said: “It’s a wonderful opportunity for people get up and do what they do with other musicians. We often get the professional singers staying on and joining in. It’s very relaxed and friendly.”

At the same time, Tim Royce will provide a more acoustic set at The Anchor Inn.

Tickets for the evening concerts cost �10 in advance, �8 for over-65s/under-16s, or �12/10 on the door. From Beer Post Office or www.steppinout.info.