The Labour Party is in need of another candidate for Altrincham and Sale West after its candidate resigned due to "personal circumstances".

Ben Hartley, who is a councillor for Ashton upon Mersey on Trafford Council, resigned with a surprise statement on social media on Friday.

Cllr Hartley was to take on Oliver Carroll (Conservative), Geraldine Coggins (Green), Jane Brophy (Liberal Democrat) and Paul Swansborough (Reform UK) for the seat of Sir Graham Brady.

Sir Graham is to stand down at the time of the next election.

Cllr Hartley said: "It is with sadness I am announcing my resignation as the parliamentary candidate for Altrincham and Sale West due to personal circumstances. Being selected as the parliamentary candidate for Altrincham and Sale West was an honour.

"I am proud of the campaign I have run so far and I would like to thank everyone for their support. I wish the campaign well and I will continue to do all I can to deliver the fresh start the residents of Altrincham and Sale West deserve with a Labour MP".

A Labour Party spokesperson said: “Ben has led a strong campaign in Altrincham and Sale West.

"Over the past year, our local activists have spoken to thousands of residents. There is a clear appetite for change in Altrincham and Sale West and residents are looking to Labour to deliver that change.” 

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.