SEVEN-TIME World Superbike champion and reality TV star Carl Fogarty enjoyed the first sips of a beer that was named after him.

The 53-year-old from Blackburn launched the 'Foggy Gold' at his regular public house, the Spread Eagle in Mellor at its launch.

The 4 per cent golden beer, a cross between lager and real ale, was brewed by Crankshaft Brewery in Leyland.

Mr Fogarty said the beer was a big hit.

He said: "I really like it.

"It goes down well and it has a really nice flavour.

"It's a mix between a lager and ale.

"I've always wanted to have my own beer so when Crankshaft got in touch I was very happy to do something with them."

Haydn Williams, who runs Crankshaft Brewery with his wife Angela, said: "I'm so happy the beer went down well at the launch night.

"Carl is a great guy and he's helped us develop a fantastic beer.

"It's great to see the whole process complete, its gone from design process all the way to the cask.

"I hope Carl enjoyed the launch night."