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.