THE secrets of science will be spilled over a pint as a popular pub-focused festival returns for its biggest and best year yet.

The Pint of Science festival will unfold in a record-breaking four Colchester venues as the international celebration marks its tenth anniversary. 

Locals' thirst for knowledge will be quenched as expert Essex researchers swap their labs for the Three Wise Monkeys, the Other Monkey Brewing Tap Room, CODA and Two Brews. 

Diverse discussions will be on topics such as using virtual reality to overcome body dysmorphia, genetics behind healthier pregnancies and how to achieve global food sustainability.

Organisers Dr Olivia Grant and Dr Ellie Watson have pledged to celebrate the festival’s birthday in style.

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Dr Watson said: "What a huge privilege to be organising Colchester's contribution to the tenth anniversary of Pint of Science.  

“Last year the festival was more of a success than we could have ever hoped, so this year it's been important to me to diversify the range of topics we cover and to get more areas of research represented.  

“I can’t wait for the festival, and I can enjoy all the wonderful talks with a pint in hand.”

Tickets are on sale now at pintofscience.co.uk/events/colchester. 

The three-day celebration runs from May 22 to 24.