I HAVE been in some sticky situations during my journalistic career - but wrestling in a paddling pool of gravy is definitely one of the most entertaining.
The first ever World Gravy Wrestling Championship will take place in Darwen this Saturday and I volunteered to take part in a warm-up event.
Unfortunately someone had forgotten to warm up the gravy.
The feel of the cold brown slime against my skin was not overly pleasant - although I am sure it would have tasted lovely with a bit of roast beef.
The competition is set to be the highlight of the Pennine Lancashire Festival of Food and Culture, with teams battling it out for international glory and a tray of Holland's potato pies.
The gravy for the competition is being specially produced by Brian Rey, owner of Fenwick Arms in Lancaster and Real Gravy campaigner.
"It's a mix of meat juices, diced veg, flour, tomato puree and beef stock," said Brian.
"There is cornflour to make it a bit thicker so it is the perfect consistency for wrestling in.
"However, it's a cold water mix because that is more hygienic."
My worthy opponent was UCLAN student Louise Birchall, from Chorley.
She was probably a foot taller than me, but I pride myself on being a pocket dynamite.
As the event is a world first, the rules have been made up from old fashioned wrestling regulations.
Wrestlers go head-to-head for two minutes over three bouts.
Jackie said: "There are points for pinning someone down or escaping a pin.
"You get a KO if you leave the ring or if you are pinned down for more than three seconds.
"If it's a draw then the judges will look at technique, but also entertainment value."
The messy match finally came to an end. I am not entirely sure who won. I don't think it really matters.
It may be slippy, sloppy and a little bit smelly, but it is for a good cause - the East Lancashire Hospice.
Go on, go and dig your lycra leggings and cape out and get gravy wrestling!
* To book a place or for more details phone 01254 585620 or 07736 029252. Teams can also turn up on the day but are not guaranteed a space.
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