Yorkshire’s most iconic cricketer is being immortalised in a new beer.

The Freddie Trueman Yorkshire Ale is being developed by the seven-year-old Copper Dragon brewery in Skipton.

It is expected to be launched on February 6, the Yorkshire and England fast bowler’s birthday.

The following month, a bronze statue to Fiery Fred, as he was affectionately known, will be unveiled in Skipton High Street. He died in 2006, aged 75.

The nine-foot bronze statue of Fred in full bowling flight has been cast in London and is be unveiled on Thursday, March 18.

Fred’s widow, Veronica, of Skipton, was at the Copper Dragon brewery yesterday to learn about the beer.

She said: “Fred would be overjoyed that a real York-shire brewery is behind this.

“He loved his cricket and his beer, as well as the wonderful scenery in this part of North Yorkshire where he lived out his final years.”

Steve Taylor, Copper Dragon MD, said: “It will be a refreshing and light golden ale that brings back memories of cricketing summers.”

The first 200 bottles of the historic beer will be individually signed and numbered by Head Brewer, Gordon Wilkinson and made exclusively available to guests attending a Gala Dinner in aid of the Freddie Trueman statue appeal, created and supported by train operator Northern Rail.

Beer and cricket lovers will join stars from sport and show business in the celebrations at The Queens Hotel, Leeds on Wednesday 17 March 2010.

For more details on the Gala Dinner, and the opportunity to grab one of the first 200 bottles, ring 01562 887323.