MP Opik scuppers Big Brother claims

MP Lembit Opik today denied reports he has signed up as a contestant on Celebrity Big Brother.

According to a national newspaper, he was all set to follow in the footsteps of fellow MP George Galloway when the show returns next January. But the Liberal Democrat denied signing on the dotted line.

Mr Opik told the Shropshire Star: “It is not true. They did ask if I wanted to be on it, but I declined the offer and thanked them for their interest.”

The Montgomeryshire MP, who has dated Cheeky Girl Gabriela Irimia and TV weathergirl Sian Lloyd, is currently campaigning for the Lib Dem presidency.

Mr Opik said his priorities were his Mid Wales constituents and the presidential battle.

The 43-year-old is up against Baroness Ros Scott and Chandila Fernando in the race for the top job, following Simon Hughes’ decision to stand down at the end of his term.