Famous for playing Jim Royle in BBC sitcom The Royle Family, Tomlinson joined the ranks of real ale enthusiasts at CAMRA after being invited to open the Clitheroe Real Ale Festival, which took place last weekend (16-17 May).
A long time beer lover, Tomlinson was said to be impressed by the beers on offer. He stayed for a few pints while signing autographs and taking photos with fans at the festival.
Neil Walker, CAMRA press manager, said: “We are delighted that Ricky Tomlinson has joined CAMRA and appreciate the support he gave the campaign at the Clitheroe Beer Festival.
“Seeing famous faces enjoying real ale will hopefully encourage more people to give it a try.”
The festival is one of hundreds organised by CAMRA around the UK. The organisation’s Great British Beer Festival will take place at Olympia in London from 13-17 August. It will feature more than 800 real ales, ciders, perries and beers from the UK and around the world.