ALE and rail fans will be able to combine their interests at the end of their month

After three successful years hosting a real ale festival, the Wensleydale Railway has announced a fourth to help raise funds to extend the line.

The WensleyAle Festival will host more than 35 real ales from both independent and micro-breweries and more than 20 ciders combined with a number of live music acts and quality food.

The festival will take place at Redmire Station and a special timetable will be operated in conjunction with the event.

One of the founders, Richard Holt, said: “This is the biggest event for the railway and we are delighted that it is approaching its fourth year.

"It’s a great opportunity to showcase an array of food, drink and music in a beautiful area of the world."

The WensleyAle Festival will take place May 25 to 27 with trains operating between Leeming Bar and Redmire, servicing Bedale, Finghall Lane and Leyburn.

The trains will operate into the evening allowing people to take advantage of the festival without the need to drive.

Leeds Brewery will be the main sponsors for the second year and Matrix Power are sponsoring the festival glassware.

The festival will also feature local bands and food vendors a DIY gin station and, new for 2018, a prosecco bar.

Proceeds from the WensleyAle Festival will go towards the line extension fund - helping the railway with its long-term ambition to rebuild the line west of Redmire to Castle Bolton.