STROUD Labour's vice-chair Debbie Hicks has been suspended from the party pending an internal investigation after her comments about the Manchester terror attack being 'wonderful timing for Theresa May'.

It has been confirmed by both the Labour candidate for Stroud, David Drew, and a local party spokesperson that she has been suspended.

In her original Facebook post, which she has since deleted, she said: "What has happened in Manchester is awful and my thoughts are with the families.

"However I cant help thinking this is wonderful timing for Theresa May.

"It is well known that politicians use events as part of their campaigns or messages."

She has since apologised for her comments saying: "My comment this morning about the attack in Manchester was ill-timed and I apologise for any offence caused.

"As I said before and I will say again, all my thoughts are with the families involved in the senseless attack in Manchester."