The beer – called 'Marching In' – was commissioned by Paul Barton, owner of the Queen Adelaide pub in Kingsthorpe, as part of his "Return of the Saints" beer festival running this weekend.

Mr Barton, who supports Gloucester, said "The pub is rugby mad and I thought it was a good idea to have a Premiership-themed beer festival, with beers from each team's region.

"I am a big Gloucester fan so it creates a bit of banter, as we get a lot of Saints fans and some players coming in."

The beer was created by Phil Greenway at Great Oakley brewery, at Bridge Farm, and he was asked to create a recipe that reflected the make-up of the Saints team.

Mr Greenway said: "The beer is golden, easy drinking and has a balance of powerful English hops and malt, with some New Zealand hops offering the flair, much like the balance of the team at Northampton Saints."

Mr Barton said: "I tasted it for the first time on Wednesday and I am very happy with it. It is light and tastes very hoppy. I think it will be very popular."

Marching In is available at the Queen Adelaide's beer festival, which runs all through this weekend. It will also be sold at selected Northampton pubs, including the Malt Shovel Tavern, ready for the first Premiership game of the season on Sunday, September 7, at 1.30pm.

The Return of The Saints Beer Festival will also feature a charity raffle and a barbecue. Entry is free.

Meanwhile, Saints will be throwing open the gates at Franklin's Gardens on Sunday for the club's annual open day.

Fans will be able to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of the Premiership new boys, including tours of the main changing rooms, gym and physio area.

Supporters can also have their photos taken with the Heineken Cup, National League One trophy and EDF Energy National Trophy, all of which will be in the Heroes' Bar.

The open day takes place between 10.30am and 12.30pm.Entry is free.