The planned speech by John Prescott in York today (Tuesday) has been cancelled.

The event with the former Deputy Prime Minister has been called off as campaigning in the General Election is suspended after the explosion at the Manchester Arena last night.

One of the big beasts of the political jungle is making his way to York.

Former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott is due to give a speech in Parliament Street on Tuesday (May 23).

He will be urging city voters to back Labour candidate for York Central Rachael Maskell.

Mr Prescott, who was Tony Blair’s deputy during the days of the New Labour government, was out on the stump in Hull and Scarborough on Monday, introducing the Labour leader that Mr Blair has steadfastly refused to back – Jeremy Corbyn.

He clearly enjoyed the experience, Tweeting: “Back on the battlebus for Labour! It’s Prezza and Jezza!”

John is John

As well as being Deputy PM, Prescott was Environment Secretary, and very involved in the UK’s negotiations on the Kyoto climate change treaty.

If you’re thinking of protesting, a word of warning. An amateur boxer, Prescott was responsible for one of the most stunning moments of any recent election.

He was campaigning in Wales in 2001 when a protester threw an egg at him from point-blank range. Prescott responded by throwing a punch, hitting the protester on the jaw.

Blair responded with the words: “John is John”.