Angela Rayner: Man arrested after string of threats against deputy Labour leader

ITV News North of England reporter Hannah Miller has the latest

A man has been arrested after a string of threats were made against the deputy leader of the Labour party Angela Rayner.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Shadow Shadow First Secretary of State and MP for Ashton under Lyne said she and her staff had "received a number of threatening, malicious and abusive communications in recent weeks."

It went on to say it has not only impacted her but also her family, her children and her staff who are on the receiving end of the threats.

A 52-year-old man has been arrested in Halifax on suspicion of malicious communications and has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Greater Manchester Police say his arrest relates to abusive phone calls received on Friday 15 October by Ms Rayner.

Detective Sergeant Christopher Dean of GMP's Tameside district said: "Abusive, threatening or bullying behaviour towards anyone is completely unacceptable and we will always do what we can to ensure those responsible are identified and held accountable for their behaviour.

"Although we have arrested one man our investigation remains very much ongoing and we will continue to pursue all available lines of enquiry to identify all those responsible."

A spokesperson for Ms Rayner said: "Angela and her staff have received a number of threatening, malicious and abusive communications in recent weeks.

We are working with the police to ensure that the perpetrators of these crimes are brought to justice and Angela would like to thank the police for their work during these investigations.

"Abuse and threats of this nature don't just have an impact on Angela but also on her family, her children and her staff who are on the receiving end of these communications.

"Angela is currently on bereavement leave after losing a close loved one and she looks forward to being back at work as soon as possible."