BRATWURST, beer and bands will be taking over Mayflower Park next weekend as Southampton Oktoberfest returns to the city.

The hugely popular German-style beer festival, which made its debut in Southampton last year, is back bigger and better.

With a huge 30m bar for punters to grab a drink from, entrants will be greeted by staff dressed in traditional Lederhosen, serving a range of authentic German beers in two-pint glasses, plus a selection of craft beers, wines and spirits.

The event is this year taking place over two days, but organisers say moving the festival, which last attracted 9,000 people, to the Town Quay park will accommodate more revellers.

Earlier this year, Satvir Kaur, the city council's cabinet member for leisure and culture, said: "It was really great to have Oktoberfest last year and it’s good to have them back this year.

"I know organisers want to make it bigger and better.

"Southampton is a place where something is always happening and it is important that we offer a mix of activities and things to enjoy for residents and visitors.

"Events of this scale are great for the local economy and bring people together."

The festival will be held on October 26 and 27.

This year, the festival is split into three sessions. People can partake between 6.30pm and 11pm on Friday, and either 1.30pm and 5.30pm or 6.30pm and 11pm on Saturday.

Tickets are priced at £10 to stand for a session or £20 for a seat. VIP tickets are also available.

Oktoberfest events in Southampton and other cities across the UK are modelled on an 18-day folk festival held in Munich.

The annual event attracts more than six million people from around the world.

As well as traditional foods, people can enjoy live a Oompah Band and DJs.