The Grand Tour host Jeremy Clarkson, 59, took the opportunity to honour Boris Johnson in a throwback photo. It comes as the Prime Minister was moved into intensive care last night as he “struggled to breathe” following his coronavirus diagnosis.
In view of his 2.7 million Instagram followers, Jeremy shared a photo of himself and Boris engaged in an arm wrestle from two decades ago.
The car-enthusiast admitted the PM had the upper hand because he is “strong”.
Jeremy wrote: “20 years ago, Boris beating me at an arm wrestle. He’s strong.”
Fans flocked to comment on the heartfelt post, after the sad news about the politician.
A No. 10 spokesman said: “Since Sunday evening, the Prime Minister has been under the care of doctors at St Thomas’ Hospital, in London, after being admitted with persistence symptoms of coronavirus.
“Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the Prime Minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the Intensive Care Unit at the hospital.
“The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputise for him where necessary.
“The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks to all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication.”
The Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been asked to deputise for him.
Other TV personalities including Piers Morgan and Dan Walker have also taken to social media to slam critics who have taken aim at Boris amid his hospital admission.
Taking to Twitter, Piers wrote: “If you have nothing positive to say about Boris Johnson on here tonight, then shut the f**k up.
“The man is our Prime Minister & he is fighting for his life.”
Dan echoed a similar sentiment, as he penned: “For those sending around vile jokes about the Prime Minister in ICU… please remember the words of The Queen last night:
“I hope in the years to come everyone will be able to take pride in how they responded to this challenge. Show some class.”
Boris was initially taken to hospital for tests after announcing 11 days ago that he had the coronavirus and his symptoms included a high temperature and a cough.
He tweeted on Monday: “Last night, on the advice of my doctor, I went into hospital for some routine tests as I’m still experiencing coronavirus symptoms. I’m in good spirits and keeping in touch with my team, as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.”
