Sheridan in the ring

There were (unfair) criticisms of George Galloway when he went off to foreign climes as part of his general election drive in 2005, I wonder if there will be similar criticisms of Tommy Sheridan when he jets off to Dubai's exclusive Jumeirah Beach resort just a few weeks before the Scottish elections?

On April 7th our man with the tan will be taking part in a celebrity boxing match against former Rangers footballer Gordon Smith. Sheridan told the Scotsman (in the unfortunately titled "Sheridan Ready to Come Out Swinging") "I enjoy boxing and it's great for keeping fit. I am in training about two to three times a week although I wish it could be more often."

The fight is a good natured rematch, the pair having last met in 2003. Commenting on his previous loss to Smith Sheridan said "I lost the fight on points, which I think was unfair and I think Gordon would say that too. I think I deserved to win and only with Stevie Wonder judging could you think otherwise."

Will we see a repeat of the victory fist raised high? Will pictures of Sheridan flat on his back adorn the gossip pages of the papers in the pre-election search for anything remotely interesting to say? Interestingly Galloway was also an amateur boxer in his time and he certainly has the fire in his belly to deliver a knock out punch - perhaps he should get in training for next year?

The £200 a ticket event (or £300 for a ringside seat) is sponsored by, among others, The Sun and Sky Sports. Be there or be square I say.