MP Simon Danczuk - suspended by the Labour Party for sending sexually explicit messages to a 17-year-old girl - has admitted he has been 'stupid and 'a fool'.

The 49-year-old Hapton-raised politician, MP for Rochdale, is facing an investigation amid claims he bombarded teenager Sophena Houlihan with racy texts after she contacted him about a job in his office.

He initially made contact with the performing arts student last July and is reported to have exchanged messages with her asking if she wanted a "spanking".

His girlfriend Claire Hamilton is said to have dumped him this week, after discovering the texts. He split from his wife Karen earlier.

Today the former Blackburn with Darwen borough councillor, who also used to work for ex-Rossendale with Darwen MP Janet Anderson, confessed that while reports in The Sun were 'not entirely accurate', he was at an 'extremely low point in my life'.

He added on Twitter: "My behaviour was inappropriate and I apologise unreservedly to everyone I've let down. I was stupid and there's no fool like an old fool.

"I'm more saddened that this episode could overshadow the important work we're doing to help Rochdale and that's where my focus lies."

Earlier this week his partner, a Labour councillor, confirmed via social media that she had 'dumped' the MP, saying he 'had it coming'.

Mr Danczuk and Miss Houlihan, who turned 18 in December, never met, it is understood.

A Labour Party spokesman said: "The General Secretary of the Labour Party has today suspended Simon Danczuk's membership of the party, pending an investigation into allegations published in the media today.

"A full investigation will now take place under the authority of the National Executive Committee, which will be responsible for determining any further action."