ONE of the region's oldest breweries has turned its attention from real ales to rail ales in support of a steam festival.

Castle Eden Brewery, in East Durham, has not only agreed to provide the bar and refreshments for the 175th anniversary Rail and Arts Festival, in Darlington, it has brewed up a special treat for rail fans.

Alongside its usual beers will be Locomotion Ale, a 3.5per cent alcohol beer currently being brewed for the event, which runs from September 29 to October 1.

Mike Wallbank, marketing manager at the brewery, said: "Castle Eden is the region's oldest brewery and it has been going since the 1820s, pretty much the same amount of time as the railways. They have grown up together and the brewery is delighted to be able to contribute to the festival."

The festival, which is being organised for Darlington Borough Council by A Full Head of Steam and Aria, is taking place at the Darlington Railway Centre and Museum, in North Road.

It opens on the Friday with a funfair, craft stalls, a big band concert and a fireworks display.

On the Saturday, there will be 12 hours of entertainment, including eight hours of live music and an inflatable train activity centre.

The Sunday programme has been extended to include a Guinness Book of Records attempt for the biggest conga line, dancing to the Little Eva song The Locomotion.

Weekend adult tickets for the festival cost £5, and day tickets £2.50. Under-16s, accompanied by adults, are free.

Tickets are available from the museum, or can be ordered by telephoning (01325) 460352