Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway, at Midsomer Norton, have announced that the RAT (Real Ale Train) at the Station event was a success.

Happy Real Ale aficionados joined the train at 7 p.m., getting their ale from the on-board bar. Beers from Bristol, Westbury and Bradford-on-Avon were all sampled with much enjoyment, whilst enjoying the mystique of travelling in darkness along the line.

The real ale event was organised by old school chums Will George and John MacArthur, who also run the successful Frome Beer Festival, and have a great deal of knowledge and expertise of “real beer.” The pair attended Frome Grammar School together, and have continued their association and love of beer. Mac’s artwork enhanced the tasting notes with his illustration of a rat that has clearly enjoyed his tipple.

Will George, who is also a qualified signalman at the station, was delighted with the evening. Will said: “It was great to see so many people enjoying good ales and excellent company. It was fantastic to be able to couple nostalgic, old-fashioned, night-time railway travel with some of the newest beers in the area. Brotherhood Brewery started producing beer in May, while Kettlesmith started production in 2015. We look forward to running more Real Ale Trains in the future.”

Halloween on the weekend was a busy time for the Somerset and Dorset Heritage Railway, and they were pleased to welcome a crowd of visitors to share their experience. The next event at the station will be the Santa specials on the first three Sundays in December. For more information, please visit: www.sdjr.co.uk