Martin Clunes with chief executive Steve Skinner at Skinners Brewery, Truro, during the TV star's visit to Cornwall to help promote a campaign to raise awareness about meningitis

Britain’s best-known fictional doctor called in on Skinners Brewery at Truro during a visit to Cornwall to help promote a campaign to raise awareness about meningitis.

Martin Clunes – TV’s Doc Martin – had earlier been to Bosvigo School, where he helped launch “Colour My Friday,” a joint campaign by the Handstand Appeal and Meningitis UK.

Handstand has been set up for two-year-old meningitis victim Marshall Janson who, together with his mum and dad, joined Martin in the Skinners tour.

Accompanied by chief executive Steve Skinner, Martin pulled a pint of Handstand Hooch, the special limited edition beer Skinners are producing on behalf of the appeal. He was presented with a case of bottled Handstand Hooch by Steve and his sales manager, Stuart Hughes.

Martin also signed two Handstand rugby shirts, which Skinners are sponsoring for the next three years. The signed shirts will be auctioned to raise money for the appeal.

Martin Clunes at Skinners Brewery, Truro, with chief executive Steve Skinner (centre) and sales manager Stuart Hughes, during the TV star's visit to Cornwall to help promote a campaign to raise awareness about meningitis