Ale named after 94-year-old pilot

A Second World War pilot raised a bottle of beer named after him to celebrate his 94th birthday.

Captain Eric Brown, known as Winkle, from Copthorne, has a distinguished aviation record having flown more aircraft models than any other pilot in history.

He is the Fleet Air Arm’s (a branch of the British Royal Navy responsible for the operation of naval aircraft) most decorated pilot. And he holds the world record for the most aircraft carrier landings - setting down planes safely 2,407 times.

Captain Brown has flown 487 different types of aircraft, and made the world’s first landing of jet aircraft, the Sea Vampire, on the deck of an aircraft carrier in 1945.

To recognize the pilot’s incredible career, Dunscar Bridge Brewery which is based in Bolton, was asked to produce a beer to celebrate his 94th birthday.

The label features Captain Brown in uniform with a de Havilland Hornet aircraft in the background.

Winkle Brown Premium Ale has a bold flavor which was created by blending English and American hops.

Dunscar Bridge Brewery managing director Pat Kitchen said it reflected Captain Brown’s strength of character and helped celebrate his service to British naval aviation. She said: “To be asked to produce a beer for such a distinguished pilot was an absolute honour. When we looked at his amazing war and post war flying record we were stunned to find out he holds all sort of aviation records and we didn’t know what to put on the label at first.

“But when we found that his favorite plane out of all the aircraft he had flown in a truly remarkable career, was the de Havilland Hornet, parts of which were manufactured locally (in Bolton), the decision was made for us.

“We are very pleased he liked the beer. We would love to create another one for him when he reaches his centenary.”

Captain Brown has written more than 30 books about his career and aviation. He still lectures on the subject. The beer was presented to Captain Brown at a party held at Boultbee Flight Academy in Goodwood. Paul Beaver, who runs Monty’s Messenger, an aviation firm which organized the event, asked the brewery to make the ale.

Story and Photo:  http://www.crawleyobserver.co.uk