UKIP's Bill 'the Beast' Etheridge ready to rumble in charity boxing bout
He's had his fair share of verbal battles over the years, but now Bill Etheridge is getting ready to rumble in a charity boxing scrap.
The outspoken UKIP Euro MP is strapping on the gloves for the first time to raise funds for the homelessness charity New Roots.
The Sedgley councillor is being put through his paces at the Ultimate Fitness gym in Bilston, while a new diet has seen him ditch the meat pies and kebabs for boiled eggs and tuna as he bids to meet his fighting weight.
He has even forgone his favourite tipple Ruby Mild in favour of less calorie-laden gin and tonics.
"I have taken this whole thing very seriously and have put in the hard yards in the gym," said the heavyweight, who is fighting under the moniker of 'Bill the Beast'.
"It will be no easy task, but it is all for a good cause. The guy I'm fighting in in some serious good shape so I just hope he doesn't tear me limb from limb."
Mr Etheridge, who was recently named UKIP's new sports spokesman, says he has lost four stone in weight in preparation for the fight.
His opponent is a veteran of 10 fights and is 10 years younger than him.
He has been sponsored Debbie Jones, who owns Hair & Beauty Spot based in the Tipton Sports Academy.
The New Roots charity gives homeless adults a roof over their heads, a stable home and support to rebuild their lives.
“They do excellent work with people ho are otherwise deemed non-urgent by local councils," said Mr Etheridge.
“I hope people will see the effort I am putting in training towards this and support me in my aim to help this fantastic charity."
The event takes place from 6.30pm on November 11 at the Bilston Imperial Banqueting Suite.
For tickets contact the venue on 01902 405423.
