THE producer of a range of beers that celebrate smuggling history has been awarded a contract to supply ferry operator DFDS Seaways.

Baytown based in Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Yorkshire coast will have its beer stocked in the bars, restaurants and shop on board each DFDS ferry that run daily between Newcastle and Amsterdam.

George Colson of Baytown said: “We are naturally delighted to be given the opportunity to supply DFDS.

"In the 18th century there were strong maritime and smuggling links between Holland and the east coast of England. Our Smuggler’s Beer range aims to commemorate these links and give DFDS passengers a taste of history as they make their crossing.”

Baytown will be running ‘A taste of smuggling’ beer tasting sessions on board selected weekend crossings.

The range consists of bitter, strong bitter, porter, cider and lager. All drinks are available in 500ml bottles and are named to commemorate the key characters of 18th century smuggling times.

Baytown Bitter at 4 per cent abv is named after the 18th century locals’ name for Robin Hood’s Bay.

Smuggler’s Haul is a 6 per cent strong bitter, with Squire’s Connivance a 5 per cent Porter. Revenue’s Revenge is a 4.2 per cent premium lager and feminine wiles are celebrated with Petticoat’s Deceit a 4 per cent premium cider.

This contract follows Baytown’s recent deal to supply its bottled beer to Cooperative Foods stores.

Baytown’s Smuggler’s Beer range is also available in cask and keg for pubs.

For information call 01947 880513 or email paul@baytownrhb.com