Could you face the Big Mick challenge?

When the Greyound pub wanted to pay tribute to Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy, chef Brian Powlett decided to come up with something special.

A meal for a big character, and for Town fans to set themselves up for an afternoon, or evening, cheering on their team at Portman Road.

The Big Mick was born.

The Mick McCarthy burger meal, or The Big Mick, has gone down a storm at the Ipswich pub with Town fans. In fact completing one has become a bit of a challenge.

Chef Brian said: “Initially it was an idea for match days only but it has become very popular.

“It is a big meal for a big man. It has to be harpooned in the kitchen.”

In the interests of research I had to pop in to the Greyhound and try one for myself.

For the record it is a burger meal with a brioche bun, specially made for the pub, plus salad and chips.

It includes two quarter pounders, hash browns, bacon and cheese.

Just the thing to sustain you before a match against Wigan, Leeds for Doncaster Rovers.

The Greyhound is also Ipswich Town academy sponsors.

Pub landlord Dan Lightfoot said: “We have a loyal Town crowd who come in before home matches and we wanted to do something special.

“Brian came up with the Big Mick and it has proved very popular.

”Hopefully after last night’s result it is going to a great end to the season. Let’s hope so.”

Former Town star Simon Milton was in the pub when I called in to try the Big Mick. but he had chosen something lighter for lunch.

“You’ll need a step-ladder for that,” he laughed.

I tucked in, with just sparkling water to accompany it (no Ghost Ship at lunchtime, I’m a journalist), and initially made swift progress.

But I flagged on the final lap, and had to admit defeat without offering an empty plate.

Perhaps some other Town fans will be able to meet the challenge before the game against Doncaster on Saturday?

So far, Town manager Mick has not beem in to try The Big Mick meal.

But if he takes Town into the play-offs, maybe he will drop in to celebrate?