Customers have hit out at a firm organising a unique gin experience along the Mid-Norfolk Railway after claiming they were 'herded like cattle' into a 'boiling hot' train after spending hundreds on tickets.

Railroad Events has defended the criticism after coming under fire from customers for its Gin Train in Norfolk, saying it has dealt with teething problems and that many customers have given five-star reviews.

HR consultant Deborah Amiss, 54, from Taverham was excited for the gin train, which travelled from Dereham to Wymondham and back while sampling gins made in Norfolk.

Mrs Amiss said: 'It was a complete shambles. Staff had no idea what was going on. We were herded like cattle into a boiling hot marquee for over half an hour.

'The measures of gin were laughable. For £40 each we had less than a single measure of gin in total.

'We were very disappointed with the whole event which was simply moneymaking exercise with no expertise, quality or quantity.'

A spokesman for Railroad Events said: 'There are many customers who had a fantastic day at The Gin Train Experience and there will be plenty more.

'Mid-Norfolk Railway who we've hired the railway from are a heritage railway charity and are aware of the feedback regarding their trains.

'As an extra we added a bar service. This was more popular than we had anticipated. For future Gin Trains we have added extra staff to keep up with additional demand.'

Chris Bone and his partner Elaine Round, from Swaffham, were hoping for a romantic evening.

Mr Bone, 70, a retired caterer, said: 'The coach was absolutely boiling and we couldn't open the windows.

'The train started off and they gave us the gin samples but it was just neat gin. They didn't provide mixers so we had to buy a £10 card to get them.

'We had already paid a premium for VIP but we were trapped and boiling with no member of staff. They need to learn the meaning of VIP.'

It is claimed the last gin sample was not served until the train had returned to Dereham, meaning many customers were unable to drink it.

Mr Bone added: 'I thought: 'Hang on, we spent £100 here' - it was unbelievable, appalling and terrible.'

Railroad Events has invited anyone with feedback about their Gin Train Experience to contact the company at www.railroadevents.com.