Ice cream brand Ben and Jerry’s is to donate proceeds from the sales of its Bohemian Raspberry flavour to Mercury Phoenix Trust, the AIDS prevention charity set up by the late singer of Queen Freddie Mercury.

The fundraiser by the ice cream brand is timed to mark the 50th anniversary of the release of Queen’s famous Bohemian Rhapsody track.

Ben and Jerry’s Joao Piva, who leads on its flavours, explains that Bohemian Rhapsody flavour has been revived after first appearing 17 years ago through a suggestion from a fan of the band.

“We thought what could be more rock ‘n’ roll than bringing this partnership flavour back to celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the world’s most loved songs, Bohemian Rhapsody,” said Piva.

The tub is being sold in shops from this month.

In addition, Ben and Jerry’s is giving customers the chance to win tickets to see official tribute band The Queen Extravaganza, which is produced by original band members drummer Roger Taylor and guitarist Brian May.

The Mercury Phoenix Trust was founded in Mercury’s memory and funds programmes that help prevent AIDS.

It was set up following the moving a Tribute Concert in 1992 by May, Taylor and the band's manager Jim Beach after Mercury died the previous year from from HIV/AIDS in 1991.

It has since provided £18m to almost 2,000 projects in 57 countries. Its focus is on funding small organisations at grassroots level.

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