WREXHAM'S MP Ian Lucas has announced that he will not be standing for reselection at the next election, citing personal and family reasons.

Mr Lucas, who has been the Member of Parliament representative for Wrexham for almost two decades, made the announcement on social media with a letter addressed to .

He said: "I owe a great debt to the people of Wrexham who have elected me five times. I joined the Labour Party in Wrexham in 1986 and have now been an activist in the Party for well over 30 years. I have met many of my closest friends through the Party.

"However, being a Member of Parliament is also a hugely demanding responsibility, increasingly so."

Mr Lucas goes on to thank his wife Nora for her support saying he 'could not have done it [his job] without her'.

The statement continues: "I am 60 next year. I have been an MP since I was 40. I think the time is right for me to choose to follow a different path in the years to come.

“One of the most difficult factors for me to consider has been the loyalty of my comrades in Wrexham Constituency; Andrew, who has been a superb Chair in recent years and my agent, Suzanne, who was steadfast in our excellent 2017 victory."

Mr Lucas concludes by thanking the people of Wrexham for their support and says that he will continue to serve them to the best of his ability until the time of the next election.

Lesley Griffiths, Assembley Member for Wrexham, made a social media post to show her support for Mr Lucas.

She said: "Very sad to see my comrade and friend Ian Lucas announce he will be standing down from Parliament. He's been an amazing public servant to the people of Wrexham."