The mayor of Sandhurst has challenged his London counterpart Sir Sadiq Khan to a boxing match to raise money for charities.
Councillor Graham Birch (Conservative, Little Sandhurst), the mayor of Sandhurst, wants to box Sir Sadiq in a match aimed at capturing the public imagination, attracting a significant audience and raising funds for good causes.
The proposed contest would see money raised shared between charities supported by the mayor of London and Cllr Birch’s two mayoral charities, Thames Hospice and Walk Once More.
Cllr Birch said: “This is a completely genuine challenge, although definitely made with a sense of fun. Sadiq has spoken about his boxing background in the past, while my own experience amounts to some very basic stance knowledge and hitting punch bags, so I suspect he has a considerable technical advantage!
“But that’s part of what could make it so much fun. I’m probably the stronger of the two of us, he’s almost certainly the better boxer, and I’d be prepared to put myself through some proper training. Most importantly, we could potentially raise a fantastic amount of money for charity.”
He is also hoping to demonstrate that political differences do not have to prevent politicians from working together for worthwhile causes.
In his invitation, Cllr Birch said the intention would be charitable rather than political, adding that he hoped two elected representatives with different viewpoints could step into the ring, raise money for good causes and shake hands afterwards.
Cllr Birch added: “Sadiq and I certainly don’t agree on everything politically, but I’ve actually been a fan of his since watching him on Have I Got News for You. He’s quick-witted, he’s got a great sense of humour, and he’s always struck me as someone prepared to have a bit of fun.
“Politics can be far too tribal. Two politicians with different views getting into a boxing ring, shaking hands before and afterwards, and raising money together for good causes would send a much more positive message.”
An initial reply from the Greater London Authority referred to Sir Sadiq being unable to attend the mayor of Sandhurst’s existing fundraising events because of prior commitments.
Cllr Birch has clarified that the proposal is not an invitation to an existing event, but an entirely new event at a mutually convenient time, with charitable proceeds shared between causes supported by the two Mayors.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service has emailed Sir Sadiq’s office for a response.
Cllr Birch’s letter states that he has invited Sir Sadiq to compete in another sporting event if he chooses.
