FANS of Darlington Football Club yesterday recognised the spirited performances of captain Craig Liddle - by naming a new beer after him.

The long-serving defender announced his retirement from league football at the end of last season and has been granted a benefit match against his former club, Middlesbrough, on Saturday.

To coincide with the occasion, the Darlington Away Far Travelling Supporters (Dafts) group has linked up with Sunderland-based Darwin Brewery to produce Liddle's Special.

A 15p donation from each bottle of the ale sold will go towards Liddle's benefit fund.

It is the second time a beer has been named after the popular 33-year-old - Liddle's Best was launched in aid of Darlington Supporters' Trust two years ago.

Neil Johnson, of Dafts, said: "Lidds, for many Darlington fans, epitomises the best in a professional footballer.

"He never gave less than 100 per cent on the pitch and undoubtedly cared a lot about the club and its fans. The beer is a token of our appreciation and we hope fans will drink a couple of bottles in his honour."

Steve Proudfoot, of Darwin Brewery, said: "Craig Liddle has obviously been a firm favourite with the Darlington fans for some time, so it's nice to be able to help them mark his career and retirement."

Liddle, who confessed to being more of a lager drinker, said: "I'm flattered and honoured that Dafts feel like doing this. I don't know what it means having two beers named after you in your career, but it's something I'll treasure."

The beer will be on sale in bars at the Williamson Motors Stadium and at Olympic Mini Stores, in Olympic Street, Darlington.