Comedian Jim Davidson put his money where his mouth is for the General Election campaign.

He hopped into a betting shop while meeting punters on behalf of the Conservatives in St James's Street, Brighton.

Mr Davidson wagered £20 at 10-1 for the Tories to win the most seats on June 7.

He said: "The price was 16-1 yesterday. They must have seen me coming in."

"I am no longer active in politics but I help people I like. This is not really about politics. It is about saving the country.

"I do a lot of work for forces' charities and morale in the forces is at rock bottom."

The comedian received many cries of recognition and support as he went into shops in St James's Street before popping into a pub in George Street for a beer.

With him were candidates Jenny Langston (Hove), David Gold (Brighton Pavilion) and Geoffrey Theobald (Kemp Town).

May 16 2001