‘But I’ve never boxed in my life,’ I said. ‘He’s virtually a professional’

It was the Labour press officer’s idea.  I resisted at first.  Vehemently.  “I can’t do that,” I said.

But my producer Tim Bouverie insisted, and so did everyone else.  “Just a bit of sparring in the ring,” they said.  With John Prescott.

“But I’ve never boxed in my life,” I said.  “He has.  He’s virtually a professional.”

So, amid intense social pressure, I succumbed.  “There are hundreds of MPs willing you on,” said the Labour candidate standing at Prescott’s side.

It was shadow-boxing at first.  But, on the basis that you get your retaliation in first, I gently grazed his lordship’s  tummy.

“Oh, it’s like then is it?” he responded.

That was it.  Before long, amid laughing and cheering, the punches  were raining in.  I was almost on the ropes.  Then thankfully, someone intevened and called it off.

Lord Prescott had won on points and proclaimed victory.

Next time I’ll stand my ground.