The English-based chain was criticised by members of the city's Civic Alcohol Forum (CAF) this week for deciding to hold the event at its pubs in the Diamond and the Strand Road.

The festival, which will take place over the next few weeks will feature cask-conditioned ales from around the world for sale from £1.29 a pint.

Wetherspoons courted controversy earlier this month when it announced it was exempting itself from the Civic Alcohol Forum's (CAF) drink promotions protocol - aimed at discouraging binge drinking.

A company spokesman insists the festival would not encourage binge drinking. "As we have said before, when it comes down to good behaviour, it is all about how well pubs are managed and not the prices.

"Our two pubs in Derry are extremely well run. That can be backed up by the police and by the licensing board.

"This is an event for people to enjoy and will offer cask conditioned ales not normally available in Derry. We are not encouraging people to mix their drinks and we are definitely not encouraging people to drink more"

The Wetherspoons spokesman says the CAF should be questioning why the average price of a pint in the city is £2.60.

"We believe that £1.29 is a reasonable price for a pint", he said. "You have to wonder why the average price of a pint in Derry is £2.60.

"That seems an exorbitant price to charge a pensioner looking for a quiet pint. If they can get a decent beer for £1.29, then why should they not be allowed to?"