A PARLIAMENTARY candidate for Darwen and Rossendale who described these duties as a “pastime” has resigned from his position as prospective MP.

Rochdale Council’s deputy leader, Dale Mulgrew, has withdrawn from the race to become MP for Rossendale and Darwen a week after declaring Rochdale was his first priority.

The son of comedian Jimmy Cricket drew widespread criticism from both Labour and Tory politicians after his comments following his promotion within Rochdale Council.

Speaking after his resignation, Mr Mulgrew said: “This is a decision I have not taken lightly, but clearly my priority from now on has to be on Rochdale.

“There are a lot of challenges, and what remains upmost in my thinking is continuing to represent the people of Rochdale.”

Sitting MP Janet Anderson questioned Mr Mulgrew’s committment last week and encouraged the Lib Dems to look for another candidate.

On hearing the news of Dale’s resignation, she said: “I am glad Dale decided to step down because I do not think his heart was ever in it.

"I wish the Lib Dems all the best and I hope they can go on to find a suitable candidate to represent Rossendale and Darwen.”

The Lib Dems are now interviewing members of an undisclosed shortlist to replace Mr Mulgrew.

Senior Lib Dem councillors told the Lancashire Telegraph a decision would be made within the next seven days.

Leader of the Lib Dems in Rossendale, Coun Catherine Pilling, said: “We recognise that this was a major promotion for Dale, and he will go far in politics.

“He will be missed, and we wish him all the very best.”