AN EAST Lancashire solicitor is overseeing a new internet craze that sees ‘fat cat’ MPs caught in the expenses scandal pelted with custard pies.

The MPs’ Expenses Custard Pie Shootout site has already been played by 100,000 people around the world since its launch two weeks ago and is now being swamped by 10,000 players a day.

And they have an added incentive to hit the target.

Those who manage to smack their chosen MP in the face six or more times in 30 seconds also get the chance to leave scandal-hit Britain behind – and win a £1million new life in Spain.

The “New Life” prize includes a £700,000 sports bar and restaurant along with accommodation on the sunny Costa del Sol.

The competition is being overseen by solicitor Richard Farnworth, of Nelson-based law firm Farnworth Rose, which specialises in property matters and has set up an account to hold all of the competition entry money until the prize draw is made.

Richard said: “The competition is fully compliant with the law and Gambling Commission rules as it is a competition which relies on skill.

“We have checked everything out fully and can reassure all who enter that everything is legally as it should be – and they can just concentrate on trying to win!”

MPs in the firing line in the game include former Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, ex-Cabinet Minister Hazel Blears and former Tory Minister Douglas Hogg.

The game’s inventor says the chance to pelt a politician is proving a big hit with angry Brits.

Businessman John Walker, who is behind the game, said: “This is people’s chance to relieve some of their anger and frustration – and the reward could be a new life in Spain, which could be the ideal Christmas present.”

Players can log on to www.new-life-in-spain.com to play the game for fun and can then pay £50 to enter the competition, which involves completing an online Sudoku puzzle.

The prize also includes 12 months’ free accommodation in a two-bedroom apartment.