PENDLE MP Andrew Stephenson showed his pulling power as he helped a team of MPs claim victory over the Lords in an annual Tug-of-War contest.

The 30-year-old MP was part of a team of 14 MPs, which also included fellow Tory Matthew Hancock and leading Liberal democrat Greg Mulholland.

Stationed in the anchor position at the back – the role traditionally handed to the biggest and strongest team member – Mr Stephenson played a pivotal role in the victory.

Around 600 people gathered to watch as the MPs beat peers including Lord St John of Bletso and Lord Kennedy of Southwark.

The 24th annual event, which took place in Westminster Abbey’s College Gardens on Tuesday, raised £120,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The Parliamentary match was the climax of a line-up featuring tugs between rival city firms, military teams, firefighters and even the St Paul’s and Westminster Abbey choristers.

Award-winning BBC Radio 2 presenter and compère for the contest Jeremy Vine, said: “Macmillan’s Parliamentary Tug of War event has become a Westminster staple and I am absolutely delighted and honoured to again be allowed that close to the House of Lords ladies team, and all the others competing for the title of best puller in Parliament.”