The fifth Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend takes place this weekend and once again the comments on social media suggest it is keenly anticipated.

A collaboration between the Island’s branch of CAMRA and the Isle of Wight Bus Museum, the event will be supported by more than 100 classic buses and coaches. This year, over 90 pubs, clubs and other licensed premises are participating.

No less than 19 special bus services will be operating over the weekend, using classic buses spanning more than half a century in terms of age.

The buses will operate from the Bus Museum in Ryde and Newport Quay, linking as many real ale pubs as possible. The services also offer options for those who like to walk, using the island’s network of footpaths.

Last year’s event attracted over 12,000 visitors, with large numbers of people from the mainland joining island residents. Now an established and significant event in the island’s tourism calendar, it is only possible because of the substantial input of volunteers.

The preserved buses and coaches coming from the mainland do so at the owners’ expense, with some travelling considerable distances.

The Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA was one of the earliest to be formed and its members provide vital voluntary support to the bus services by acting as marshals and information points.

No fares are charged on the special bus services, but users are encouraged to purchase a timetable and guide for £7, the presentation of which will attract discounts or special offers at some participating venues.

All of the proceeds go towards the upkeep of the museum and its expanding collection of vehicles.