THE sixth annual Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend is on the horizon.

Taking place over the weekend, the popular event is a collaboration between the Island’s branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the Isle of Wight Bus Museum, with more than 120 pubs, clubs and other licensed venues participating, all linked by a network of 19 special free bus services.

At least 110 preserved buses and coaches will be taking part, dating from the 1930s through to the early years of the 21st century.

The buses will operate from two major hubs — Newport Quay and the Bus Museum in Ryde. The services will deploy from these two points and link as many real ale pubs as possible.

The event also offers options for those who like to walk, using the Island’s network of footpaths.

Last year’s event attracted around 17,000 visitors, with residents being joined by large numbers of people from the mainland.

Now an established and significant event in the tourism calendar, it is organised and operated entirely by volunteers, and the preserved buses and coaches coming from the mainland do so at the owners’ expense, with some travelling considerable distances.

No fares are charged on the special bus services, but users are encouraged to purchase a programme for £7.

This includes timetables, as well as discounts or special offers at some participating venues.

Programme holders will also be able to travel free on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway over the weekend.

Any profit is used for the upkeep of the IW Bus Museum.

Programmes and schedules are available from the County Press Office.

Further information can be found on iwbeerandbuses.co.uk

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