CHURCH bosses are backing a scheme which encourages pub-goers to raise money for a Blackburn Cathedral appeal by drinking beer.

Some local police and counsellors who help the victims of alcohol-related crime have privately admitted they are 'gobsmacked' and 'surprised' by the plans to donate cash based on sales of the new Cathedral Brew.

But Cathedral spokesman Canon Andrew Hindley, said: "We would not want people to drink to excess. I think that people either choose to drink or not to drink. If they drink they can enjoy a pint without going mad and I am sure the people of Blackburn are sensible enough to do that."

Cathedral Brew, produced by Blackburn brewers Thwaites, is due to go on sale at the beginning of next month and will be launched with a photocall outside the Cathedral next Wednesday. A percentage of all sales of the 4% ABV ale will go to the £750,000 appeal to re-build and improve the Cathedral's lantern tower.

The 'spikey' tower, built in 1967, has a leaking roof, the artificial stone cladding has eroded and the stained glass has had to be removed for safety reasons. The repair scheme includes plans for a new stained glass window.

Cathedral Brew, which is being referred to as "an ale to aspire to," is just part of Thwaites' backing for the appeal. The brewery is also allowing collection boxes into its pubs in and around the town.

Mr Hindley added: "We are glad that Thwaites are trying to help us. In Salisbury, they have Bishop's Tipple and Bishop's Finger and they don't seem to cause any problems."

Thwaites marketing manager John Siddeley said: "We are fully behind the Cathedral project and will be allowing a percentage from the sales of Cathedral Brew to go to the appeal."

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