Express & Star

WATCH: UKIP's Bill Etheridge rumbled in charity boxing match

He is no stranger to putting up a fight on the political front, but Bill 'the Beast' Etheridge stepped up his game in the boxing ring to raise money for charity.

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The UKIP Euro MP strapped on his gloves for the first time to raise funds for the homelessness charity New Roots.

Dozens gathered at Bilston's Imperial Banqueting Suite on Saturday night to see the Sedgley councillor take on Dudley's Ross Brummell.

It comes as in recent weeks Bill has been 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 to get into shape for the night.

He walked into the ring to fight song 'Still Unbroken' by American rockers Lynyrd Skynyrd, donned in a black vest and shorts before putting on his helmet and gloves.

Spectator's cheered him on and encouraged him to show his 'left hook' as the scrap got underway.

Bill confidently jumped into action with several quick fire shots at his opponent because taking advice from his coach at the end of each round.

Both men were congratulated at the end of the three-round match with a medal each.

Bill Etheridge

Speaking to the Express & Star Bill said: "I've got some sore ribs today but it was a great night.

"There was such a fantastic atmosphere and it was the kind of night where everyone was showing support for each other.

"I was pleased with how I did because the lad I was up against was a lot more experienced than me - I think he took a bit of mercy on me in the last round.

"It was an exhibition fight so there was no winner, but I was up against a great lad and enjoyed it."

He continued: "I have only done a few months training but so far I think we have raised more than £1,000 for the charity.

"The match was suggested to me when I went on a diet and started training at a boxing gym. They said there was a show on so why don't you come down and have a go.

"It sounded crazy but I thought let's go for it.

"I think I would need to get a lot more training done if I was to do something similar again - but there has been talk about something in March, so we'll see."

Bill Etheridge MEP with Ross Brummell, of Dudley, at the Imperial Banqueting Suite, Bilston

The night of boxing got underway at 7.30pm with Bill on just before 11pm.

Spectator Joe Wisley, who had came to the event with girlfriend Lorna and her mother Jean Downing, said the night had been great entertainment.

He added: "It's nice to come out to something like this in aid of charity and have a few drinks.

"Bill Etheridge seems to be in good shape lately, so his fight adds to the excitement of tonight too."