AN ARKELL’S favourite is making a comeback in pubs – but this time around, new head brewer Alex Arkell has given it a different twist.

Maypole Mild was first brewed in 2008. It is 3.6 abv, dark in colour and Alex has introduced a new American hop, Willamette, to give it an exciting spicy floral aroma.

According to Camra (Campaign for Real Ale) this traditional style of beer, dating back more than 400 hundred years, disappeared from many pubs and was in danger of becoming extinct in certain areas of Britain. Arkell’s has been helping to revive it.

Alex Arkell said: “Mild ale is usually slightly sweeter and distinctly less bitter on the palate and in aroma than the more highly hopped bitters.

“Mild is usually, but not always, darker in colour than bitter, through the use of a higher roast malt or caramel, and is a lovely beer for this time of year.”

Maypole Mild will be available from April 23 and throughout May at participating Arkell’s pubs from £2.80 a pint.