Blairs fans of Chan

Cherie Blair has revealed that she and her husband Tony are big fans of martial arts star Jackie Chan.

She made the revelation when she presented Chan with the 2005 World Diversity award, in recognition of the Shanghai Knights star's charity work, at a London hotel yesterday.

The PM's wife told Chan: "I have to say the PM is a bit of a fan. He tells me that Rush Hour is his favourite."

Her own favourite Chan flick, however, was Around The World In 80 Days, the movie based on the Jules Verne novel that also starred comedian Steve Coogan (Coffee And Cigarettes, 24 Hour Party People).

Cherie gave tribute to Chan describing him as the biggest martial arts star since Bruce Lee using comedy and action to win the hearts of European and American audiences.

She said: "There are so many people who can play heroes but there are not so many who can say they are an all-round good guy."

In congratulating the Crime Story star Cherie was embraced so tightly that half his award statue broke off and fell to the floor.

Chan returned the praise by saying he had great respect for the job her husband did.

He said: "I saw him in the congress and all that talking - I tell you, I don't want to be prime minister.

"Everybody knows I can hit, I can punch and I can jump, but the worst thing is having to make this speech."

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