THE footballing exploits of Lion of Vienna Nat Lofthouse have been immortalised in a unique piece of memorabilia created by a Bury firm.

For the Bolton Wanderers legend can now add to the 33 England caps he amassed during his illustrious career after an honours cap was produced to commemorate his brave performance in Austria 53 years ago.

Lofthouse, who had already scored once against the Austrians, earned the Lion of Vienna tag when he raced half the length of the pitch and was knocked unconscious in a collision with the Austrian goalkeeper as he scored the winning goal.

Only 125 of the Lion of Vienna caps - which go on sale this week - have been made by Bury-based company Tie and Scarf for public sale.

The company is run by former Bolton Wanderers chairman Barry Chaytow.

Mr Chaytow, who is a close friend of Lofthouse, believes the hats will prove popular with Wanderers fans.

He said: "I got talking to Nat and because we produce international caps, I thought it would be a great idea to produce a cap commemorating The Lion of Vienna.

"This is the first time we have produced a cap like this which has gone on sale to the general public.

"I am sure it will do well because Nat has fans all over, not just in Bolton. He's like God in Bolton and in other parts of the country."

The handmade velvet hats take two hours to produce and are embroidered: "Nat Lofthouse The Lion of Vienna, 25.5.1957, England 3 Austria 2.

The caps cost £50 and each have a letter signed by Nat Lofthouse.

Mr Chaytow has supplied international caps to the English, Scottish and Welsh FAs and England's Rugby Union team.

Its site in Bury employs 15 people and supplies many of the country's football clubs with scarves and ties. Call Tie and Scarf on 0161 761 5151 for details about the new cap.