Ale drinkers have helped to raise �2,700 to protect wildlife habitats across Norfolk by drinking more than a quarter of a million pints in the last year.

Woodforde's brewery, based in Woodbastwick, teamed up with the Norfolk Wildlife Trust in February 2011 to produce Once Bittern, a Norfolk ale made from Maris Otter malted barley grown within the county.

For every pint sold Woodforde's pledged to make a donation to the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and the scheme has now raised �2,700 to help support species such as the beer's namesake, the endangered Bittern.

Brendan Joyce, chief executive of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, said: 'Both Norfolk Wildlife Trust and Woodforde's champion the abundant natural wealth of Norfolk and we are thrilled to see the success of Once Bittern.

'This money will go towards projects to help the Bittern and the county's other wildlife at habitats in Norfolk, in particular at the Wissey Valley Living Landscape.'

As well as becoming a permanent brew for Woodforde's, Once Bittern was awarded GOLD for Best Bitter at the SIBA East of England beer competition in 2011.

Dennis Nudd, director of Woodforde's, added: 'We're delighted that the partnership has proved so fruitful for the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and also the protection of the unique Norfolk environment.

'Since Once Bittern has been so warmly received we've made it one of our permanent beers.

'It will therefore continue to be widely available in pubs throughout East Anglia and for each pint sold a donation will continue to be made to this worthy Norfolk cause.'

Once Bittern is 4pc in strength and described by Woodforde's as 'a copper-coloured ale made from a special blend of high quality Norfolk ingredients and has a distinctive aroma of sweet malt, rich spice and citrus fruit with a dry finish'. It is also now available in bottles.