MAX FACTS

The beer was named after the Maxim machine gun detachment attached to the Northumberland Hussars.

Landlords originally complained that Maxim Ale was so strong, customers fell asleep after one bottle.

The beer became Double Maxim after its strength was reduced in 1938.

Double Maxim was rebottled in 1992 to celebrate Sunderland gaining city status.

Vaux sold 250,000 cases of Double Maxim a year at its height.