EAST Lancashire politicians have reacted with shock to the death of fellow MP Jo Cox.

The Labour MP was shot and stabbed during an attack in her constituency Batley and Spen yesterday.

A 52-year-old man was arrested near Market Street, Birstall, West Yorkshire Police said.

The MP was holding a weekly advice surgery nearby.

Blackburn MP, Kate Hollern, said: "Shocked and saddened to hear my friend and colleague Jo Cox has been attacked.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Jo and her family."

Burnley MP, Julie Cooper, said: "Totally shocked to hear of the brutal attack on my friend and colleague Jo Cox MP for Batley and Spen.

"Praying for her speedy recovery."

On discovering the news of her death she responded: "The news is truly devastating."

Hyndburn MP, Graham Jones also tweeted: "Really sad.

"Jo was a friendly, bubbly, passionate MP. Always had a bounce & a smile. Always. 2 young children now left without their mum"

Meanwhile, Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans tweeted:"Oh my God. May your blessings be with Jo Cox tonight, her dear family and friends of all political colours. I salute you, amidst my tears.

Earlier in the afternoon he said: "I'm suspending all tweets and Facebook postings in support of my colleague Jo Cox MP- thoughts with her and family at this awful insane act."

Ribble Valley councillor Ken Hind tweeted: "Our hearts go out to Jo Cox MP and her family at their loss every MP's nightmare 4 years in Northern Ireland I am aware of the risks."

Andrew Stevenson MP for Pendle tweeted: "Absolutely devastating news that Jo Cox MP was murdered whilst serving her constituents. My thoughts and prayers are with her family."

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council Mohammed Khan also tweeted: "We are shocked and devastated that Jo Cox PM died after shooting. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends."