STROUD Labour Party's vice-chairman has said the terror attack at Manchester Arena is "wonderful timing for Theresa May".

Following the bomb attack at the end of an Ariana Grande concert, in which 22 people were killed, Debbie Hicks said on Facebook:"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."

Debbie recently stood as Labour's county council candidate for Stroud Central.

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Following her comments, she told the SNJ: "The tragedy in Manchester is sickening and my heart goes out to all the young people involved and the families and friends.

"I am just concerned that with two weeks until an election, this will be used politically by the government to reinforce a 'strong and stable' message when it comes to national security, defence and surveillance and it is worrying.

"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."

David Drew, Labour's MP candidate for Stroud in the upcoming General Election said: "I wish to completely disassociate my campaign and the Stroud Constituency Labour Party from the remarks made by Debbie Hicks.

"These have been made in a personal capacity and in no way represent my views and those of the Labour Party at either national or local level.

"We have suspended campaigning and send our thoughts and solidarity to the bereaved and the people of Manchester."