ARKELL'S is raising a glass to the Royal British Legion after supporting a unique new cookbook.

Celebrity chefs have teamed up with acting or former members of the military to create Cooking With Heroes: The Royal British Legion Centenary Cookbook.

It launched recently at Claridge’s and as an official sponsor of the cookbook, Arkell’s Brewery showcased at the event.

The hardback book is a unique way of highlighting the contribution made by the RBL and by the British armed forces over the years. It celebrates 100 regions around the world in which the RBL has operated, with each represented by an authentic recipe as well as a profile of a local hero whose valour, conduct and commitment deserves to be remembered.

Established in 1921, the RBL is the UK’s largest armed forces charity. Best known for organising the annual Poppy Appeal and Remembrance Day services, the RBL works to support current and ex-service personnel as well as their families.

With a list of family military connections that can be dated back all the way from current chairman James Arkell’s great great great grandfather, who joined the Second Wiltshire Rifle Corps in 1888, to his son John, who served in Afghanistan, the brewery’s editorial contribution in the cookbook highlights the strong connection to the military that the Arkell family has had for 150 years.

James said: “We have beer and military service running through the family veins and the brewery are delighted to support this commemorative fund-raising cookbook.”

At the launch the brewery showcased its latest seasonal beer Contemptibles – a mild ale perfect for autumn, brewed using chocolate malt for the dark colour, which also adds warm roasted and sweet tones, with a light hop aroma to compliment. Featuring on the pump clip design are Noel Arkell’s sons James and Peter, who fought in the Second World War. This brew honours the armed forces.

The book is available online at: www.poppyshop.org.uk/products/legion-100-cookbook or from Arkell’s Grape & Grain Wine & Brewery Warehouse.

Contemptibles is available in participating Arkell’s pubs.