A FRESH-FACED MP was refused the sale of alcohol at a baseball game, despite being 47.

Braintree’s MP James Cleverly was on a family holiday in the United States and decided to take in some local culture at Fenway Park, the home of the Boston Red Sox, at their game against the New York Yankees on August 10.

But he was shocked and astounded when he was told by a vendor that he wasn’t allowed to buy a beer as he didn’t have any proof of age.

Mr Cleverly, who is well over twice the legal age for the sale of alcohol in the US, jokingly put the secret of his youthful looks down to “Mineral water, vegan food, plenty of sleep and celibacy.” Before adding: “All must be avoided.”

Gazette: James Cleverly

On his sightseeing trip to America, Mr Cleverly paid a visit to Braintree’s namesake in Massachusetts where he met with the town’s mayor Joe Sullivan.

He was given a tour of the Town Hall in John F. Kennedy Avenue before the pair discussed political topics, including Brexit and the US Presidential election.

Mr Sullivan, town officials, veterans and local business leaders welcomed Mr Cleverly and presented him with a proclamation and other gifts.

There is a time capsule from Braintree placed at the Town Hall in Massachusetts which will be opened in 2076.

To end the visit, Mr Cleverly said he would gladly return the favour for anyone wanted to pay a visit to Essex.

Mr Cleverly said: "It was a pleasure meeting Mayor Joseph Sullivan, on my visit to Massachusetts.

"As the Mp for Braintree in the UK I couldn't come to New England and not visit our namesake. I'm so glad I did. Mayor Sullivan and I chatted about our respective towns, our shared history, as well as local, national, and international politics.

"The mayor and the people of Braintree could not have been more hospitable and I thank you for making me feel so welcome."