BREWERS at the Flying Monk Brewery in Malmesbury have raised a glass to the RAF centenary by brewing a special beer for the occasion.

Chocks Away, a 4.6 per cent IPA, which has a mint feel and a malt and zesty finish, was launched at Flying Monk Tavern in Chippenham on Thursday by brewery chairman Ian Morrison, to help raise much needed funds for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

"The anniversary celebrations started this weekend, so that's the reason why we launched it on Thursday," Mr Morrison said.

"One of our dray men Dave Heavens used to be in the RAF and suggested that we support them this year and Paul Hewson from the RAF Benevolent Fund agreed.

"The brewery is based next door to Hullavington Airfield, so we do feel a connection with the history of the RAF and we are looking to get it in as many places as possible.

The brewery will donate seven pence from every pint sold to the benevolent fund, which provides support and advice for all serving and former members of the RAF, as well as their partners and children.

Chocks Away, which is available for a year, can be purchased from select pubs across Wiltshire.

Current and former Royal Air Force personnel and guests also celebrated the centenary with a sit down meal in Malmesbury Town Hall on April 1.

Organised by former Hercules pilot Matt Cockram from Malmesbury and with almost 100 personnel taking part in the celebration, the total combined service of those who attended the dinner was 1,200 years.

Mr Cockram, said: “I’m delighted that so many former and current RAF personnel, of all ranks, and their partners supported the dinner. It was a great success and a wonderful evening, thanks to the excellent facilities at the Town Hall.”

Over £1,000 from the evening has been donated to the RAF Charitable Trust.