THIS is the man who claims he was punched in the face by North-East Labour MP Ronnie Campbell after a curry house row.

Police have interviewed the Blyth Valley MP over the allegations made by father-of-three Graeme Gillespie.

The unemployed plasterer, who suffered a fractured cheek bone, a chipped bone in his nose and four dislodged teeth, voted for Mr Campbell at the last election. "That's definitely the last time he gets my vote," he said.

The incident is alleged to have taken place in the Pan Ahar Indian Restaurant in Newsham, near Blyth, Northumberland, on June 7.

Mr Gillespie, 33, of Newsham, claimed that his female companion became involved in an argument with the MP after he apparently complained about the quality of his food. "Then a big row just broke out between the two and I was in the middle," he said.

Mr Campbell, 58, and his son then left the restaurant after the incident at about 11pm.

Two people collecting a takeaway meal who saw what happened have given statements to police.

Mr Gillespie made a complaint to police next day after receiving hospital treatment.

He added: "If I had done anything to justify being hit then I could accept that.

"Politicians should not act in this way. I want to see him prosecuted and he should be sacked."

Last night, Mr Campbell was unavailable for comment. He is believed to be on holiday.

His wife Deirdre said: "My husband doesn't want to say anything at the moment. He will put out a statement in his own time."

A Northumbria Police spokesman said investigations were at an early stage. He added: "Inquiries are on-going and no one has been charged at this stage."