MONTY Python funnyman John Cleese has thrown his weight behind metric martyr Steve Thoburn.
The comic legend compared the high-profile case to a Python sketch after the greengrocer received a six-month conditional discharge earlier this year for flouting European laws banning the sale of loose goods in pounds and ounces.
With Thoburn, of Roker, Sunderland, preparing for an appearance at the High Court, Mr Cleese sent Neil Herron, coordinator of the Metric Martyr Defence Fund, a message of support.
He said: "Our respect for our constitution is undermined by this kind of administrative and judicial insanity.
"I am aware of the case, although I have to keep pinching myself lest I believe I am watching a Python sketch.
"I can not tell you how strongly I feel about this ridiculous and offensive abuse of authority."
Thoburn, 37, will challenge the original ruling by Sunderland City Council on Tuesday, but could be asked to pay £96,000 in costs if he loses.
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