A CRAVEN brewery could soon toast a new partnership with managers of the Pennine Way.

A brewer is being sought to produce an official beer for the long-distance footpath.

Under the initiative, part of the proceeds from each pint, bottle or keg sold would go towards maintaining the trail.

The 268-mile route passes through Craven as it makes its way from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm, in the Scottish Borders.

It is maintained by a partnership of organisations, with financial support from Natural England.

"This is an exciting opportunity for a local business to join forces with an iconic national trail which is part of British heritage," said a spokesman.

"We hope the relationship will benefit both parties. The brewery will profit from association with the Pennine Way and the publicity this brings, while the maintenance of the trail will benefit from a financial contribution.

"The Pennine Way has a long association with 'hoppy' refreshment.

"People have been taking on the challenge of walking the trail along the spine of England for the past 50 years and northern hospitality is a significant part of the experience, with many pubs located along or close to the route."

Breweries are invited to submit expressions of interest by March 17.

Visit nationaltrail.co.uk/pennine-way/news/official-beer-pennine-way for more details.