RIBBLE Valley MP Nigel Evans has been re-elected by his colleagues to a key role in Parliament.

The Conservative backbencher is once again one of three deputies to House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle.

The posts, which involve chairing Westminster debates, were filled following a ballot of all MPs on Monday.

Mr Evans was a Deputy Speaker from 2010 to 2013, when he stood down after being charged with sexual offences of which he was later acquitted by a jury.

Mr Evans, a close friend of Chorley Labour MP Sir Lindsay, said: “It’s been a long journey.

“I am so delighted that my colleagues have given me this vote of confidence by electing me as a deputy speaker.

“Now I know that the circle has been completed.

“I have had lots of messages of congratulations from fellow MPs and constituents.

“I am so grateful for all the support I have received.

“I am looking forward to working with Sir Lindsay who has already made an amazing start to the job of restoring trust in our Parliamentary democracy.

“I shall be raising a glass in The Swan with Two Necks at the weekend to all those who have supported me in recent years.”