A VETERAN Rotarian who was blinded after being hit in the eye by a Champagne cork has welcomed a new invention.

Bill Fairclough, of Turton Road, Bradshaw, described the creation of the new Champagne cork which reduces the "pop" as a "great idea."

Bill lost his sight when a cork from a bottle of Champagne he was opening hit him in the eye at an Inner Wheel charity breakfast three years ago.

The cork hit Bill with such force that specialists fought for months to save his eye. Bill, 70, said: "Despite the accident I have never lost my love for Champagne and it is one of my favourite drinks.

"I think the invention is a great idea as long as it doesn't spoil the taste. Sadly it's come too late for me." Champagne loving Frenchman Jacques Pitoux invented the cork after he sat down with a group of friends to drink a bottle and a quarter was lost in froth.

His new design releases gas from the Champagne to reduce the force of the cork when the bottle is opened and has been taken up by two Champagne producers.

It has been well received in France but research shows the British prefer the pop and fizz.

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