A BEER inspired by an Essex novel is set to go on sale in Colchester pubs.

The Essex Serpent tells the story of widow Cora Seaborne, who leaves London for Essex, where she hears rumours of a mythical serpent who roams the county's marshes.

She then sets out to find the creature.

Her journey takes her through Saffron Walden, Colchester and Mersea Island.

Now, to mark the book's paperback release, the Saffron Brewery is completing its own Essex Serpent ale trail, which will see the brewery's special beer, also called Essex Serpent, go on sale from today. **APRIL 20**

Among the lucky pubs are the Victoria Inn, in North Station Road, and the New Inn, in Chapel Street South.

The Fox Inn, on Mersea Island, will also offer the beer.

In keeping with the folklore, each bottle or pump clip will be equipped with a QR code which drinkers can scan in order to "report" sightings of the beer.