A by-election in the West Lancashire constituency will be held in the coming weeks following the decision of former Labour MP Rosie Cooper to step down.
Ms Cooper resigned in November after accepting the role of chair of the Mersey Care NHS Trust. She had represented the West Lancs constituency for the Labour Party since 2005.
In confirming her decision to leave politics, Ms Cooper said the events she has faced in recent years - namely being the target of a murder plot by a neo-Nazi in 2017 - had taken their toll on her.
READ MORE: Schoolgirl kicked and punched in head in sickening attack at party
In her statement, she said: "It has been an incredible honour and privilege to have served the people of West Lancashire for the last 17 years. I have loved every minute, even in the most difficult times.
"The decision to apply for the role was taken after a considerable period of soul searching and reflection. The events I have faced over the last few years are well documented and undoubtedly have taken their toll."
Business in the returning House of Commons yesterday started with opposition whip Sir Alan Campbell issuing the writ for the now vacant West Lancashire seat. Labour had triggered the by-election after Ms Cooper stood down.
The by-election has to take place between 21 and 27 working days from the issuing of the writ, suggesting it will likely take place on February 9.
Read next:
Schoolgirl kicked and punched in head in sickening attack at party
Tempers flare in court as boy, 14, found guilty of murdering teen
Man's chance meeting with woman on night out ruined his entire life
