The brew has been hand crafted by Wolf’s Head Brewer, Will Edwards, who said “We’ve created an easy drinking golden beer to mark the Poppyline’s 50th Anniversary using barley grown and malted locally along with some of the finest aromatic hops – ideal to celebrate such a momentous milestone.”

The 3.7% abv ale has a citrussy aroma with a biscuity maltiness on the palate and a refreshing lemony finish. The distinctive label features a photo of the first train that the North Norfolk Railway ran after gaining a licence to run, known as a Light Railway Order, in 1975.

General Manager, Graham Hukins said “We are delighted that Wolf Brewery are creating this very special beer for us and cannot wait to raise a toast to our five decades of progress with it. The beer will be one of 50 local ales and ciders at the Rails & Ales event which will also feature live music from local musicians as well as plenty of on-track entertainment.”

The railway is set to welcome four special guest engines for the event which will see two steam locomotives and eight diesels in action working an intensive timetable of passenger trains. Tickets allow unlimited travel all day, allowing passengers to hop on and off and sample different tipples that will be available at each station.

As well as the special beer, the line’s 50 years will be marked by the visit of a modern GB Railfreight Class 69 locomotive which will be named “North Norfolk Railway” in honour of the occasion. The locomotive, which has never previously visited a heritage railway will also work some passenger trains over the three day event, giving visitors the exceedingly rare opportunity to travel behind it. For full details of the event, and to book, please see www.nnrailway.co.uk/rails-ales/

The North Norfolk Railway is open most days until 2 November; more details can be found on the line’s website www.nnrailway.co.uk. Advance booking is strongly recommended and passengers doing so receive a generous 15% discount on their fares.