ENGLAND fans following the fortunes of Alastair Cook’s men this summer may just find a bit of comfort thanks to a new beer in honour of Burnley’s James Anderson.

The national side were blasted away at the weekend as Australia drew level in the Ashes series, with the selectors turning to Yorkshire batsman Jonny Bairstow for the third Ashes Test at Edgbaston, starting on Wednesday, July 29.

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But James, who went a whole two Test innings without taking a wicket for the first time in 59 matches last week, might have given us a brew with a bit more body with his 3.8 per cent abv pale ale King of Swing.

The label on the bottle features him in action, along with the three lions of England, and was released in time for the summer’s Ashes series.

Anderson, who grew up in Burnley and early in his career played in the Lancashire League, worked with Marston’s head brewer Emma Gilleland at the brewery in Staffordshire, where he learned about the brewing process and worked with her to create the right flavour profiles and hop aroma.

He said: “I was amazed to learn that there was so much that went into brewing beer.

“I enjoyed talking to Emma about each of the complex elements that go into taste, aroma and refreshment. I am really pleased with the result and hope that beer and cricket fans agree.”

Marston’s have been associated with English cricket at a national level since 2007 in one of the longest standing commercial partnerships for the team.

It also has partnerships with four Test Match grounds and a number of regional leagues and local club sponsorships.

James also met on-site cooper Mark Newton for an insight into the traditional barrel-making craft and the ale is available at Morrisons stores.

Gaynor Green, Marston’s marketing manager, added: “We have enjoyed working with James as part of his ambassadorial role with us this year and in the run-up to this summer’s Investec Ashes.

“As a long-time supporter of cricket it is great to be able to marry the on-shelf appeal of our beer with the on-pitch brilliance of an England cricketer.”

James became the leading England Test wicket taker of all time earlier this year, passing Sir Ian Botham.