A NEW beer has been brewed by adults with learning disabilities to mark the centenary of a Widnes pilot who received the Victoria Cross.

Norton Brewing is reviving a First World War recipe to raise funds towards a statue to commemorate Sgt Thomas Mottershead.

The courageous 24-year-old, of Vine Street, landed his plane while engulfed in flames from enemy fire, saving the life of his observer.

A life sized bronze sculpture is nearing completion and will be unveiled next year in Victoria Park.

A commemorative stone and a blue plaque have already been installed.

The Sgt Mottershead VC Statue Appeal approached Halton Council with the idea of producing a commemorative beer.

Norton Brewing in the grounds of Norton Priory, was founded in 2011 and brews three ales Priory Gold, Priory Ale and Priory Velvet.

It is one of a range of businesses launched by Halton Council to develop the confidence and independence of around 150 adults with learning needs.

Making ice cream, operating cafes, running a shop, managing a hair salon and making handmade crafts are some of the many skills they have acquired.

Only eight barrels of the Our Heroes' beer have been produced and go on sale this month at The Premier in Widnes, The Ferry Boat, The Prospect and The Royal Oak in Runcorn.

Halton Cllr Marie Wright, board member for health and wellbeing, said: "This is a truly pioneering project and this special brewing will bring it to the attention of people in and outside Halton as well as honouring a real local hero.

"The people involved really enjoy coming to work and it really gives them meaning in their lives.

“They are overjoyed that their product it getting such wide recognition. It really is a win win situation."

David Gray, Treasurer of the Sgt Mottershead VC Statue Appeal, said: "Sgt Mottershead was awarded the VC posthumously.

“He was in combat at 9,000 feet flying a Royal Aircraft Factory FE – 2d plane over the Western Front in January 1917.

"His plane was shot by German aircraft and set on fire. Enveloped in flames which his observer could not subdue, the gallant airman succeeded in regaining their own lines.

"The machine collapsed on landing and Sgt Mottershead, undoubtedly saving the life of his observer, subsequently died from his injuries."

Halton has three war heroes who were awarded the Victoria Cross during the First World War.

Private Thomas (Todger) Jones has a statue and commemorative stone near the cenotaph in Runcorn.

A statue appeal for acting lieutenant Thomas Wilkinson, from Widnes, will be launched in the new year.