Michael Barrymore to take up swimming lessons

Michael Barrymore is to take up swimming lessons after he returns from his break in Mauritius.

The TV host claims he had booked the lessons before his ability to swim came into question.

He is at the centre of a police investigation into claims he committed perjury at an inquest into the death of Stuart Lubbock.

During the inquest the entertainer said that he could not swim - evidence that was challenged by Barrymore's former wife, Cheryl, after the hearing.

But Barrymore's new agent Mike Browne says he has got a signed statement from the swimming instructor saying the lessons had been booked before the inquest.

"Prior to the inquest, we planned to go on holiday and my wife said it would make a lot of sense to take up swimming lessons," he said.

"Michael was present when the conversation arose and he said "I tell you what, I'll come along with you."

"We go sea fishing together and neither of us can swim, so obviously it would make sense for us to learn.

"These lessons were booked prior to the inquest and we've got a statement saying the lessons had been booked."

Barrymore is likely to have to wait several weeks before discovering whether he is to be charged with perjury.