THE sixth annual Isle of Wight Buses, Beer and Walks weekend will take place on October 12 and 13 — and it's set to be more popular then ever.

This year’s family-friendly event will see 110 buses offering free travel on a first come, first served basis, to more than 120 Island venues including, for the first time, Calbourne Mill and Chessell Pottery.

Founder Tim Marshall said: ‘The event has snowballed from the initial seed of an idea, where I contacted a friend with a vintage bus, into a jaunt around some of the Island’s most beautiful areas.

‘Last year we had around 17,000 people take part, with many bringing their dogs along for the ride.

‘We hope people will come along and enjoy themselves as in previous years, with a number of additional family-themed venues added to the route.

“In addition, we are pleased to be part of Visit Isle of Wight Travel Ambassador's Green Star Scheme, which encourages car-free holidays on the Isle of Wight.”

The Buses, Beer and Walks event is free, with the option to spend £7 on a programme — which includes a timetable, Southern Vectis and Wightlink offers, and money-off vouchers for venues included on the route.

The first buses will depart from Ryde Bus Museum at around 9.35am, and will run through until 7pm.

Programmes are available at all participating venues, as well as the visitor centre at Newport Guildhall and online at the event's website.

For further information, visit www.iwbeerandbuses.co.uk