Last updated 11:35, Monday, 12 May 2008

This is not an invitation which Reiver can honestly say he expected to be offering, but here goes: Are there any historians out there who would like to give Mike Tyson a guided tour of Hadrian’s Wall?

Mike Tyson: Hopes someone can give him a guided tour of Hadrian’s Wall later this month

Perhaps I should explain. The former world heavyweight champion is coming to Carlisle on Sunday May 25 as part of a national dinner tour.

That evening Iron Mike will meet fans at the Sands Centre where he will be interviewed in a boxing ring by former world champion turned sports presenter Richie Woodall.

But earlier in the day Tyson – who at the age of 20 was the youngest man ever to win a world heavyweight title – is hoping to spend some time studying Hadrian’s Wall. The boxer is widely read and has a keen interest in history.

Promoter Ray Fisher told Reiver: “As soon as I mentioned Carlisle to Mike he said ‘Hadrian’s Wall!’

“He’s really different to how people think he is. He’s read a bit about Hadrian’s Wall and while he’s up in Cumbria he’d like someone to give him a guided tour of the wall during the afternoon.”

Although Cumbria’s tourist people will not thank me for saying it, very little of the wall is left in the county. The most spectacular remains are probably at Housesteads Fort, about 30 miles east of Carlisle, and are well worth a visit.

Anyone who would be willing to share their knowledge of Roman Britain with Mike Tyson can contact Ray Fisher via info@fisherpromotions.co.uk or by calling 01925 414123.

The same contact details can be used to buy tickets for an evening with Tyson. Prices, including a three-course dinner, range from £75.

Tickets are selling well but some people will doubtless be waiting until the end of this week before committing themselves.

Cumbrians could have another big sporting event to look forward to on Sunday May 25 – Carlisle United in the League One play-off final.